MANILA, Philippines - The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) went on red alert Monday as the weather disturbance off Surigao strengthened into a tropical depression.
The NDRRMC has been continuously monitoring the tropical depression, which has been named "Ofel." Gale warnings, flood advisories and information dissemination are constantly being made to affected areas, particularly in the Northern Mindanao and Eastern Visayas areas.
NDRRMC Executive Director Undersecretary Benito Ramos has directed all concerned regional offices to undertake precautionary measures in anticipation of Ofel.
All Coast Guard districts in the affected areas were also directed to monitor the situation and coordinate with local government units to warn small boats and fishing boats against going out to sea.
In its 5 a.m. bulletin, Pagasa said storm signal number 1 is raised over Leyte, Southern Leyte, Eastern and Western Samar, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Island, Surigao del Sur, Agusan provinces, and Camiguin Island.
Pagasa said Ofel may make landfall in the coming days.
Article Source: Abigail Kwok, InterAksyon
