Coast Guard also ordered to warn vessels from setting off rough seas
Transportation and Communications Secretary Mar Roxas has directed the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) to strengthen coordination with local government units (LGUs) in time for Typhoon ‘Quiel’ as public storm signal 2 has already been raised over provinces, including Cagayan and Isabela, where the typhoon is expected to have its landfall over the weekend.
With the destruction brought about by Typhoon ‘Pedring’ just over the past week with already 43 lives claimed, DOTC is expanding and strengthening the PCG’s role in disaster prevention. Its stronger coordination with LGUs is seen to have a major impact in giving early warning to low-lying areas that face the threat of flooding, and destruction of human lives and property.
“We have trained men in our Philippine Coast Guard who are vigilantly watching over civilians that must be given assistance during flooding and typhoon-related threats. But we also need to intensify our coordination with local government authorities who have wider knowledge on the condition of their local communities,” said Roxas.
The PCG has also been instructed to warn all vessels to stop from setting off in seas as typhoon Quiel hits the country. Vessels that have already been sailing in Philippine seas will be recalled to immediately return to shores for their safety and protection.
“Kailangan po nating ma-assure ang kaligtasan ng mamayan at mga maglalayag sa napipintong pagdating ng isa na namang unos kaya nagsasagawa na agad tayo ng maagang pagkilos bago pa tuluyang lumala ang sitwasyon [We are conducting precautionary measures to ensure the safety of our citizens and vessels sailing in our seas in line with the expected severe weather condition this weekend],” Roxas said.
PCG has always been part of rescue operations during typhoons and other natural disasters. It has also been working with other agencies including the National Disaster Coordinating Council and the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical, and Astronomical Services (PAGASA) on issuing timely warning notices to residents in areas identified as prone to landslides, or flashfloods. Residents in coastal areas are also warned against strong waves and winds.
When a storm signal is hoisted over an area, it is automatic that PCG gives a warning for vessels of less than 1,000 gross-ton weight to keep away from the seas.
Fishermen are asked to first inquire about weather conditions even before engaging in fishing in seas specially when PAGASA already made announcements of upcoming storms.
Citizens, shipping companies and others who might need assistance during the inclement weather condition can call PCG hotline 0917-PCGDOTC or 0917-7243682.
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