The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has directed all local government units (LGUs) to complete the evacuation of residents in high-risk areas by Sunday, ahead of the expected landfall of Severe Tropical Storm Fung-Wong, which will be given the local name “Uwan” once it enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
In a statement on Friday, the DILG urged local officials to act decisively and not wait for conditions to worsen before moving residents out of flood- and landslide-prone zones.
“Early evacuation saves lives. We’re asking all local chief executives to complete preemptive or mandatory evacuations no later than Sunday,” the department said.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported at 11 a.m. that Fung-Wong was last spotted 1,315 kilometers east of Eastern Samar, carrying maximum sustained winds of 100 km/h and gustiness of up to 125 km/h.
The storm is expected to enter PAR by late Friday or early Saturday, intensifying into a typhoon by Friday night and possibly a super typhoon by Saturday. PAGASA said landfall is projected over Northern or Central Luzon by Monday.
The DILG also reminded LGUs to ensure evacuation centers are equipped with sufficient supplies, backup power, and trained personnel to assist evacuees. It stressed that continuous coordination with regional disaster councils and clear public communication are vital.
“We cannot be complacent. The next 48 hours are crucial for preparedness,” the agency said. “We urge everyone to stay informed and cooperate with authorities.”
The department likewise suspended sea travel, outdoor tourism, and recreational activities in areas along the storm’s forecast path. LGUs were also ordered to deploy road-clearing teams and secure access routes for emergency response and relief delivery.
PAGASA warned that weather conditions would begin to deteriorate over eastern Luzon by Sunday, bringing strong winds, heavy rainfall, and dangerous coastal conditions. The agency added that storm surges, coastal flooding, and gale-force winds are likely, with gale warnings to be issued as early as Saturday.