ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) — Despite Romblon being far from the direct path of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, various government agencies in the province are preparing for the potential impacts of the storm’s trough.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has readied over 2,000 food packs and non-food items at their warehouse in Odiongan, Romblon, to support residents on Tablas Island. In total, around 18,000 food packs are available across the entire province, ensuring sufficient supplies in case the situation escalates.
According to Melzandro Mariano, the focal person for DSWD MIMAROPA, trucks have already been stationed on Sibuyan Island to distribute non-food items if needed.
“Our truck from DSWD MIMAROPA is already on Sibuyan Island to deliver non-food items that can be used by evacuees in case we need to open evacuation centers,” according to Mariano.
The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) also issued warnings to fishermen, advising them against setting sail due to the rough sea conditions caused by the storm.
Sean Jayner Cabral, head of the Coast Guard Station Romblon, confirmed that sea travel in Romblon has been suspended as the province was placed under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal #1.
Meanwhile, the local government of Odiongan has mobilized its Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO). Equipment like chainsaws, generators, and life vests are on standby, and local officials have begun inspecting flood-prone areas and rivers to monitor potential hazards.
Classes in public and private schools, and work in government offices have been suspended in Romblon province since October 22. (PJF/PIA MIMAROPA-Romblon)
