Photo courtesy of Office of the Governor Information Unit – Catanduanes
VIRAC, Catanduanes (PIA)—In preparation for the expected adverse impact of Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami), the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) here convened on Oct. 21 to ensure disaster response readiness of the different member agencies of the PDRRMC as well as of the provincial government and the 11 municipal local government units of Catanduanes.
The Pre-Disaster Risk Reduction Assessment (PDRA) meeting, held at the Office of the Governor, was presided over by Acting Provincial DRRM Officer Luis Surtida, Jr.
Representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) based in the province reported during the meeting that over 14,000 food packs and 945 hygiene kits were already prepositioned in warehouses in the 11 municipalities.
The Provincial Health Office (PHO) also reported the status of medical inventory and supplies, including the availability of anti-tetanus vaccines, hygiene kits, medicines, antibiotics, and IV fluids.
Meanwhile, PCOL Edward Quijano, Provincial Director of the Catanduanes Police (CATPPO), said that the PNP in Catanduanes is on full alert and its personnel are ready to be deployed for disaster response operations.
Quijano added that based on the present tract of TD Kristine, the province will not be directly hit, but CATPPO is taking proactive measures for its possible effects to ensure the safety of residents.
Virac Mayor Samuel Laynes issued a Memorandum suspending classes in all levels both in public and private schools in the municipality on Oct. 22, 2024, until lifted, due to the projected accumulated rain of 100-200 mm (heavy to intense rainfall) over Catanduanes.
Laynes urged the public and the different barangay DRRM councils to take necessary precautionary measures to avoid or mitigate the possible effects of heavy rains, flash floods, and landslides.
Gov. Joseph Cua also suspended work in all government agencies in the province.
Offices whose functions are involved in the delivery of basic and health services, preparedness, and response to calamities shall continue with their operations and render the necessary service to the public.
The suspension of work in the private sector is left to the discretion of their respective management. (PIA DMD)
