Albay: The provincial government of Albay is aiming for zero casualty once Severe Tropical Storm Opong (international name Bualoi) makes landfall in the province Friday. In an interview Thursday, Governor Noel Rosal said the province's 18 local government units had been directed to carry out preemptive evacuations to also ensure the safety of rescuers.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Albay Public Safety Emergency Management Office has established a no-rescue policy, prompting the implementation of preemptive measures. Governor Rosal emphasized the importance of announcing this policy to discourage people from ignoring evacuation orders. This strategy is part of the province's efforts to achieve zero casualties and minimize incidents.
Roderick Mendoza, APSEMO officer in charge, mentioned that a complete report on preparations from the towns and cities is expected later in the afternoon. Coordination with municipal and city disaster risk reduction management offices is ongoing to ensure accurate data.
Hundreds of families in Guinobatan town have already evacuated due to a potential lahar flow from Mayon Volcano, posing a threat to several high-risk areas. Marilou Orfano, a resident of Barangay Tandarora, shared her family's preparedness measures, which include packing essentials like food, important documents, hygiene kits, and flashlights for quick evacuation.
Orfano explained their proactive approach, placing prepared belongings in a bucket near the roadside for easy loading when evacuation transport arrives. Her family, residing in a vulnerable area during natural disasters, prioritizes early evacuation for safety.
Meanwhile, Maj. Frank Roldan, spokesperson for the 9th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army, announced the activation of Task Force Sagip to assist local government units as Opong approaches the Bicol Region. The Army has been on red alert, with over 6,000 soldiers ready to assist in humanitarian efforts and disaster response, backed by the Army's mobility, communication, and logistical assets.
