Authorities in the northern municipalities, particularly the islands of Banton and Sibale, also ready for possible forced evacuations in areas susceptible to storm surges.
Romblon Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (PDRRMO) Joseph Menorca said that updates from Municipal DRRM Officers (MDRRMOs) were closely monitored.
According to the Office of Civil Defense MIMAROPA, storm surges could affect these islands, prompting proactive measures.
Governor Jose Riano has issued directives to all government agencies in the province to stay alert and be prepared for the typhoon’s effects. Rescue teams have been placed on standby for immediate deployment if needed.
With Tropical Storm Warning Signal #1 raised over Romblon, sea travel in the province has been suspended. This has left 187 passengers bound for Caticlan and neighboring provinces stranded. In response, the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) set up free Wi-Fi at an evacuation center in Odiongan, currently hosting 144 stranded passengers.
Meanwhile, the Romblon Police Provincial Office has deployed nearly 200 personnel across the province to assist with emergency response operations.
Although clear skies and occasional gusty winds are being experienced in Romblon as of this writing, preparations remain in full swing to mitigate the typhoon’s potential impact. (PJF/PIA MIMAROPA-Romblon)
