The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Tuesday instructed local government units, especially in Northern Luzon, to intensify their disaster readiness measures ahead of Super Typhoon Bavi’s arrival.
Placing vulnerable areas under heightened alert, the agency stressed the urgency of immediate action.
“Now is the time to prepare. We are directing all LGUs to move early, activate their disaster response mechanisms, and ensure that communities in high-risk areas are ready should conditions worsen,” the DILG stated.
Local authorities have been ordered to strictly implement “Operation L!STO” protocols, with the DILG emphasizing that proactive and unified governance is vital to minimizing storm damage.
“We expect every local chief executive to remain at their respective stations, lead from the front, and act decisively to protect lives and keep their communities safe,’’ the DILG asserted.
The mandate aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for a unified, “whole-of-government approach” aimed at protecting citizens, properties, and livelihoods before the typhoon enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility, where it will be locally named “Inday.”
Although weather forecasts from DOST-PAGASA indicate that a direct landfall is improbable, the DILG cautioned that the super typhoon will likely intensify the Southwest Monsoon, threatening many parts of the nation with torrential rains, landslides, and flash floods.
To ensure community resilience, the DILG has directed LGUs to execute the following measures:
- Activate local Incident Management Teams and Emergency Operations Centers.
- Enforce preemptive evacuations in highly vulnerable communities.
- Pre-position emergency rescue gear and relief goods.
- Clear local drainage networks and evaluate the safety of public infrastructure.
Additionally, citizens are advised to monitor official weather updates, pack emergency kits, and avoid non-essential travel while the severe weather persists.