The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has called on shopping mall operators across Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon to make their parking facilities available to the public as temporary shelters for vehicles during the onslaught of Typhoon Inday.
MMDA Chairman Don Artes issued a memorandum requesting mall owners to allow overnight parking for residents seeking a safer place to leave their vehicles as the typhoon brings heavy rain and strong winds.
While the storm has slightly weakened, weather authorities continue to warn of hazardous conditions, with 12 provinces in Northern Luzon remaining under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1.
The memorandum states:
“In anticipation of the projected strong winds and heavy rainfall due to Super Typhoon Inday” in Metro Manila and other provinces, all shopping mall operators are hereby requested to open the parking spaces in their facilities Luzon-wide to the public for overnight parking, as temporary safe parking spaces for vehicles.”
The request takes effect on Thursday evening and will remain in force until the typhoon has moved away from the country. Forecasters expect Typhoon Inday to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Saturday, with the most severe weather expected from Thursday night through Friday morning.
The MMDA also appealed for the cooperation of mall operators, saying:
“Your cooperation in this joint public service effort will greatly help protect lives and properties amid this severe weather event.”
To keep residents updated, Artes said the MMDA will post official announcements from participating malls through its social media platforms.
The initiative supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for government agencies to strengthen preparedness measures and reduce the possible impact of the typhoon.