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The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) vowed to announce the suspension of government work and classes a day ahead of a typhoon’s arrival.
DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla made the remark after President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. authorized the agency to announce the suspension amid an incoming weather disturbance.
Such authority could be exercised by the DILG if the Office of the President has not made any announcement.
In a press briefing in Malacañang on Tuesday, Remulla said he used to announce the suspension of work and classes a day ahead of a typhoon’s arrival when he was Cavite governor.
Remulla said he will do the same as DILG chief in compliance with the President’s directive.
“When I was governor of Cavite, I was always a day ahead,” he said.
Remulla said the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) is now more adept at weather forecasting.
However, they rely on the US’ Joint Typhoon Warning Center (JTWC), Windy.app, and the Japan Meteorological Agency, he said.
“So, lahat ng information gina-gather naming. And we make a predictive model and the rain forecast model. Dati kasi ang ginagamit lang path and wind. Ngayon pati ang rain forecast sinasama,” Remulla said. | PND
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Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for efficient and robust relief operations, Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Director Leon Rafael on Tuesday assured sufficient aid for typhoon victims.
In a press briefing, Rafael said food supply for typhoon-hit families is enough, adding that the government has always been on top of the situation amid the calamities.
“Sa mga Local Government Units naman natin ay may sapat po na mga food packs o kaya pagkain sila,” Rafael said.
“Kung nangangailangan po sila ay magsabi lamang dahil nakahanda po ating national government, nakatutok po sila sa amin dito sa Region II at saka lahat ng Region na tatamaan ng mga susunod pang mga bagyo at handa po silang mamigay ng kakailanganin ng ating mga regional offices po,” he added.
Rafael said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is continuously distributing family food packs (FFPs) in Cagayan Valley, particularly Isabela.
“Sa ngayon po ay nagre-replenish na po ‘yung ating DSWD lalong lalo na ‘yung mga family food packs po natin. Ang Isabela ay binibigyan na po ng replenishment kasi paparating na naman po, at mukhang tutumbukin na naman ‘yung ating eastern seaboard ng Cagayan Valley,” he said.
As of November 11, a total of 32,293 FFPs were released in Region II.
Rafael reported calm weather in Cagayan Valley as of today, providing DSWD more opportunity to immediately replenish goods and supplies.
“Kagaya po nito, gumaganda ‘yung panahon. Ito po ‘yung window namin para mag-replenish,” he said. | PND
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Water levels in major dams in Luzon remained below spilling levels despite Typhoon ‘Nika’, state hydrologists said on Tuesday.
Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) Hydrologist Richard Orendain reported the status of the dams’ water levels amid the threat of two more potential storms after Nika.
According to Orendain, PAGASA is closely monitoring the water level of Magat Dam, located between Ifugao and Isabela, due to heavy inflow of water.
“Actually ‘yung Magat Dam nag-release na ito noong nagsimula siya nung kay Tropical Storm Leon, Marce. Ibinaba nila ito hanggang elevation 182 meters. So, napakalayo na po nito sa spilling level na 193,” Orendain said.
“Malaki pa rin ‘yung inflow ng Magat Dam sa ngayon dahil umaabot siya ng halos 2,000 cubic meter per second ‘yung pumapasok sa reservoir. And ang inilalabas lang niya is halos 700 cubic meter per second. So medyo matatagalan, mapo-prolong ang pagre-release ng Magat Dam gawa ng may paparating pang bagyo,” he added.
Orendain warned of possible flooding within Cagayan Area because of heavy inflow of water in Magat Dam. One of the Dam’s gates has been opened but more could be opened if water reaches critical level to prepare for the incoming storms, he said.
The official assured PAGASA is following directives of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on the gradual release of water from dams to avoid severe flooding in downstream communities.
He said as of 8 a.m., the water levels of Angat (201.73 meters), Ipo (99.99 meters) and La Mesa Dams (79.5 meters) decreased.
Two gates of Ambuklao Dam in Benguet were opened with total opening of 1.0 meter and total discharge of 154.00 cubic meters per second (CMS). The water level of Ambuklao Dam was at 751.58 meters, which is within the normal high water level of 752 meters.
Binga Dam’s water level was at 574.7 meters (normal range – 752 m) with two gates opened; San Roque Dam – 278.3 (normal range 280 m) with one gate opened; and Pantabangan Dam – 209.94 (normal range – 221 m). | PND
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reminded the public to heed advisories of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on the potential impact of Tropical Storm Ofel.
In a press briefing organized by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Cris Perez of PAGASA’s Weather Division said residents in areas already impacted by Nika should remain vigilant against the typhoon’s effects.
The soil in the mentioned areas have become saturated with rainwater, increasing the risk of flash floods and landslides, the official said.
Perez explained Nika has brought a significant amount of rainfall in the Northern Luzon area.
“Sa mga kababayan natin sa Northern Luzon, kung nag-uulan na during the last few days, medyo saturated na mga kalupaan. Mas malaki ang tsansa na magkaroon ng flashfloods and landslides sa mga darating na araw dahil andito pa ‘yung epekto ng bagyong si Nika and then paparating na bagyong Ofel,” Perez said.
“Dapat paghandaan ng mga kababayan natin partikular na sa Northern, Central Luzon area sa posibleng epekto ni Ofel sa kanilang lugar,” he added.
In its latest advisory, PAGASA reported Nika has weakened, moving northwestward over the West Philippine Sea. Signal Number 1 was raised in several areas, including Ilocos Norte, the northern portion of Ilocos Sur, and the northern portion of Apayao.
The northern and western portions of Abra, the western portion of Babuyan Islands, and the northwestern portion of mainland Cagayan are also under Signal Number 1.
Meanwhile, PAGASA said Tropical Storm Ofel entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility, moving west north-westward at 25 km/h with maximum sustained winds of 75 km/h near the center and gusts of up to 90 km/h.
No tropical cyclone wind signal has been raised so far. | PND
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The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) on Tuesday assured close coordination with partner agencies to monitor movements of the new typhoons.
PAGASA said the move is in line with the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for concerned government agencies to track typhoon directions and provide the public timely information on the storms and their impacts.
“As early as last week, we’ve been coordinating with partner agencies natin in terms of disaster preparedness and mitigation regarding the effects of not only Nika but also tropical cyclone Ofel,” PAGASA Weather Division Officer-in-charge Cris Perez said in a press briefing in Quezon City.
Perez said they informed relevant agencies of possible effects of the typhoons in areas recently affected by the previous storms, particularly in Northern and Central Luzon.
“Patuloy po tayong makikipag-coordinate [to] provide updates on rainfall forecast, [at] wind signal para po we [can] prepare yung mga kababayan natin in those regions na posibleng maapektuhan din nitong paparating na bagyo,” he said.
PAGASA is currently monitoring three storms. The agency issued general flood advisories in the Ilocos region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, and MIMAROPA.
As of early Tuesday, Severe Tropical Storm “Nika” was spotted 185km west of Laoag City, and is expected to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) later today.
Tropical Storm Ofel (international name Usagi) also entered the PAR early Tuesday.
PAGASA is currently monitoring another storm (international name Man-yi) outside of PAR. | PND
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In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive, the government continues to support local governments hit by Typhoon Marce.
As of Monday evening, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported it delivered a total of 50,121 family food packs (FFPs) to three most hit regions.
The DSWD said 10,315 FFPs were released for the Ilocos region, 32,293 for Cagayan Valley, and 7,513 FFPs for the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).
Typhoon Marce made landfall in Cagayan on Thursday and exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) Friday afternoon.
In Dingalan, Aurora, weather has improved, according to Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer Christian June Dagasdas.
He said the local government has lifted the suspension of fishing in their area of responsibility.
Dagasdas said FFPs delivered to them were helpful to the fishing community amid the depleted fund of the LGU.
“Kung may maitutulong po ‘yung from national, ‘yung food packs, malaking bagay po, lalung-lalo na po sa mga mangingisda po namin na talagang nangangailangan sa panahon po ng kalamidad,” Dagasdas said in an interview.
President Marcos visited Cagayan and Ilocos over the weekend to personally deliver cash aid to typhoon victims. He also vowed swift reconstruction of damaged houses in the affected regions. | PND
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday welcomed cruise lines industry leaders and other government partners joining the Seatrade Cruise (STC) Asia 2024.
Speaking at the gathering at Okada Manila in Paranaque City, President Marcos said he expects a more vibrant cruise tourism in the country that could bring lasting benefits to all.
The President said the Philippines last year welcomed more than 100 cruise calls across multiple destinations, showing the increasing industry confidence on the country’s capabilities.
He said the Philippines anticipates 109 calls for 2024, with other confirmed schedules extending to 2027.
“Yet, numbers alone do not tell the full story,” the President said. “What truly matters is the promise behind those numbers—the promise that each ship docking here brings a wave of opportunities for local economies, for artisans, for communities.”
“The journey ahead will require all of us to work very hard together, with dedication, foresight, and with purpose. As we continue to move forward with the same vision and determination that have brought us here today, I have no doubt that the Philippines will succeed in the global cruise tourism industry.”
The government’s goal is to build an industry that benefits everyone: the cruise lines and its crew members, the local communities, and the travelers who seek to explore the rich diversity of the cultures.
By streamlining operations, enhancing efficiencies, and focusing on sustainable practices, President Marcos said the country aims to ensure that the cruise industry grows in practical and inclusive way.
To achieve this goal, the government is strengthening infrastructure, forging meaningful partnerships, and ensuring that both the cruise industry and local communities flourish.
“In line with our National Tourism Development Plan of 2023 to 2028, we have worked diligently to modernize our ports, enhance guest experiences, and streamline entry processes,” the President pointed out.
“The recently launched Cruise Visa Waiver Program is just one example of how we are transforming our policies to welcome visitors with open arms and with open doors,” he added.
Other government efforts include Executive Order No. 55, s. 2024, launching the Maritime Industry Authority’s (MARINA) Blockchain-Enabled Certification System, enacting the Magna Carta of Filipino Seafarers, and commencing the development of Ladderized Maritime Education and Training.
The STC Asia 2024 focuses on expanding Asia’s potential as a cruise tourism destination and market by bringing together global and regional stakeholders including itinerary planners, port agents, cruise associations, cruise line executives, and government officials to discuss growth, challenges, and opportunities in the cruise and maritime industries.
The event is being hosted by the Philippines with the Department of Tourism as the lead agency. | PND
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The Presidential Communications Office (PCO) reiterated yesterday President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for private contractors with government contracts to mobilize their resources in anticipation of upcoming emergencies.
“Iyong mga private contractors na may kontrata sa gobyerno – DOTr, DPWH – dapat naka-preposition na din,” Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Acting Secretary Cesar Chavez told reporters in Malacañang on Monday.
Chavez referred to President Marcos’ order to the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to prepare as three more typhoons are expected to enter the country.
He said the Office of the President (OP) has also instructed the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to issue directives on suspending classes and work if the President’s office is unable to do so.
Chavez also assured the government has enough resources. The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has confirmed that ample funding is in place for disaster response efforts. | PND
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has signed several laws separating various school extensions and converting them into independent institutions.
Under Republic Act No. 12057, the Paulino Dari National High School (PDNHS) – Balong-balong Extension in Pitogo, Zamboanga Del Sur will be separated from the PDNHS and established as an independent school, to be named as Balong-balong National High School.
Similarly, RA No. 12058 mandates the separation of Bacungan National High School-Sipakong Extension in Leon B. Postigo, Zamboanga Del Norte, which will be renamed Sipakong National High School.
Republic Act No. 12059 provides for the separation of Lapuyan NHS-Sampang Extension in Lapuyan, Zamboanga Del Sur, which will now be called Pampang NHS.
According to the three RAs, the creation of the new and independent NHS shall absorb all of their personnel, assets, liabilities, and records.
The initial funding of these schools shall be charged against its former institutions’ current year appropriation. Thereafter, the amount necessary for the continued operation of the school shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act (GAA).
The President also issued RA 12060, establishing Tiblawan NHS in Davao Oriental. The funding of which shall be included in the annual national budget.
The Secretary of the Department of Education is directed by the Chief Executive to immediately include the operationalization of the four schools in the Department’s program.
“Within 90 days from the approval of this Act, the Secretary of Education shall formulate the rules and regulations implementing the provisions of this Act. Such implementing rules and regulations shall provide for the school’s organization, administration, operations and management, in accordance with RA 9155, or the “Governance of Basic Education Act of 2001”, RA 10533, or the “Enhanced Basic Education Act of 2013″and other basic education-related laws,” the Acts stated.
All the RAs were signed by President Marcos on October 31, 2024 and shall take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation. | PND
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President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has issued Republic Act No. 12055, declaring every November 15th of every year as a special non-working holiday in the province of Occidental Mindoro in commemoration of its foundation anniversary.
“November 15 of every year is hereby declared a special non-working holiday in the Province of Oriental Mindoro to be known as “Araw ng Oriental Mindoro, in commemoration of its foundation anniversary,” stated RA No.12055 signed by the President on October 31, 2024.
The Act will take effect 15 days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.
The Palace also issued proclamations declaring special non-working days in various municipalities in the country.
These include: San Jose, Batangas on Dec. 11, 2024 (Proclamation No. 731); Narvacan, Ilocos Sur, Dec. 13 (Proclamation No. 735); Malvar, Batangas, Dec. 16 (Proclamation No. 736); and Sindangan, Zamboanga Del Norte, Dec. 23 (Proclamation No. 737.)
Proclamations were also issued for Dumingag, Zamboanga Del Sur, declaring Dec. 27 as “Araw ng Dumingag” (Proclamation No. 732) and Vintar, Ilocos Norte, Dec. 4, for Vintar Day (Proclamation No. 734).
President Marcos also issued Proclamation No. 733, declaring Nov. 23, as a special non-working day in Angono, Rizal to celebrate the Higantes Festival, and Proclamation No. 738 for Bayawan, Negros Oriental on Dec. 23, to mark its 24th Charter Anniversary.
All proclamations will allow residents full opportunity to enjoy and participate in these significant local celebrations. | PND
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