Ilocos sur: Ilocos Sur residents have been warned against flooding and landslides that may be triggered by moderate to at times heavy rains due to a low pressure affecting this northern part of Luzon. Rhon Arquelada of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) said that preparedness is critical especially in low-lying areas and high slopes.

According to Philippines News Agency, 'To our city and municipal DRRMOs in the province, please remain vigilant and continue monitoring the situation,' Arquelada said in a statement on Monday. Areas identified in the geohazard map of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) include several towns and villages in Ilocos Sur as well as in La Union.

At very high risk of landslide are Barangays Amilongan, Anaao, Apang, Apaya, and Kiat in Alilem; Alfonso, Bussot, Dapdapig in Gregorio del Pilar, Banoen, Cayus, Lamag, Legleg, Malideg, Patiacan, Patungcaleo in Quirino; Matibuey and Tiagan in San Emilio; Balbalayang, Banga, Caoayan, Danac, Licungan, and Pangotan in Sugpon -- all from the province of Ilocos Sur.

Other very high risk areas to flooding are the following villages in La Union: Bucao and Lon-oy in San Gabriel; Sapdaan, Sasaba, and Tubaday in Santol; Bulalaan, Duplas, Maliclico, Porporiket, and Up-uplas in Sudipen. The Office of Civil Defense in the region also noted that other areas not included in the list but located in close proximity to or downstream of the listed areas may also be affected.

Residents living in these areas are advised to take pro-active measures to minimize risk.