SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union (PIA)—The Coast Guard District Northwestern Luzon (CGDNWLZN) is strongly advising residents in flood-prone areas of the Ilocos region to evacuate immediately as heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon, or habagat, continue to cause widespread flooding.
While Typhoon Carina has already exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), its lingering effects, combined with the habagat, have triggered significant rises in water levels.
As of July 25, the CGDNWLZN has already rescued 130 individuals and assisted 31 families, providing them shelter in evacuation centers across Luna, Aringay, and Bangar in La Union, as well as Candon City, Ilocos Sur.
CG Ensign (ENS) Ivhanne L. Rillon, CGDNWLZN operation officer, emphasized the importance of heeding evacuation orders and preparing early.
“Makipagtulungan po tayo sa awtoridad, huwag po tayong matigas ang ulo kung pinalilikas po tayo ay sumunod po tayo dahil ang mga sinasabi ng ating authority ay para rin sa ating ikaliligtas,” Rillon said in an interview with PIA on Thursday.
(We urge the public to cooperate with local authorities and evacuate immediately when instructed.)
“I-assess din po natin kung ang area po natin ay nasa mababang lugar upang maiwasan po natin na saka lang tayo lilikas kung hindi na kaya, mas maganda pong lumikas kung mas mababa ang tubig,” he added.
(It’s crucial to assess your surroundings and relocate to safer areas before the situation worsens.)
The CGDNWLZN remains on high alert as rescue operations continue.
The agency is closely monitoring coastal areas and coordinating with local government units to ensure the safety of communities.
The public is advised to stay updated on weather forecasts and follow the guidance of local disaster response teams. (AMB/REB/PIA Region 1)
