NDRRMC to public, LGUs: Observe COVID-19 health rules amid storm

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reminded the public and local government units to observe COVID-19 health measures in case of evacuation due to the effects of Tropical Storm Enteng.

Interviewed on Dobol B sa News TV on Sunday, NDRRMC spokesperson Mark Timbal said the council issued a regulation with adjustments on the emergency response due to COVID-19.

“Pinapaalala po natin sa local governments natin, although wala naman direktang epekto si Enteng ngayon at ang mga pag-uulan na nararamdaman natin ay buhat sa enhanced monsoon, ang paalala natin sa mga kababayan natin at sa LGUs na patuloy na protektahan ang sarili nila,” he said.

Timbal reiterated that wearing of face mask and observance of social distancing should be followed in the evacuation areas of affected residents.

Moreover, LGUs should already have a list of evacuation areas for emergency use, noting they must designate  centers that are not used as quarantine facility for COVID-19.

In its 5 a.m. severe weather bulletin, state weather bureau PAGASA said Enteng is enhancing the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat), bringing rains to parts of Luzon and the Visayas.

Also, PAGASA said, a low-pressure area (LPA) located west of Zambales will also enhance the Habagat.

Monsoon rains are to be expected over Pangasinan, Benguet, Zambales, Bataan, MIMAROPA, and Antique, and occasional rains over Metro Manila, CALABARZON, Bicol Region, and the rest of Ilocos Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, Central Luzon, and Visayas.

During times of heavy or prolonged rainfall, flooding or rain-induced landslides may occur in hazard-prone areas, PAGASA warned. —LBG, GMA News