Pagasa warns north Cebu vs Glenda

CEBU, Philippines- Although Glenda holds no direct threat to Central Visyas, northern Cebu towns are advised to remain vigilant as the typhoon nears landfall in Luzon.

Engr. Oscar Tabada, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration-Visayas chief, said he made the reminder because northern Cebu is the portion closest to Luzon.

He said, though, that the effect of the typhoon would just be minimal, adding that the rains being experienced in Cebu are due to the southwest monsoon (Habagat).

The Cebu City government, however, is not taking any chances. It declared a Blue Alert Status yesterday to raise public awareness on the typhoon.

City Councilor Dave Tumulak, City Risk Reduction and Management Council head, said they have instructed the officials of the city's 80 barangays to be on the alert.

He said barangay officials and employees have already prepared their equipment for use in responding to the possible incidents due to typhoon.

The city's seven ambulances, 20 fire trucks, and 28 Kaohsiung buses ae already placed on standby for fast response to any eventuality.

Tumulak said that those living within the three-meter easement of rivers and waterways have been instructed to do pre-emptive evacuation if the water begins to rise to the heavy rain.

No suspension of classes has also been declared by the city government.

Ester Concha, chief of the Cebu City Department of Social Welfare and Services, also assured that the city government has enough relief goods. —/RHM) (FREEMAN)