Dumaguete: The Philippine Coast Guard in the Negros Island Region (NIR) created 66 rescue groups across the region on Thursday in preparation for the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Opong. In a press conference, Commodore Christopher Auro, the newly installed commander of the Coast Guard District South Visayas-NIR, based in this Negros Oriental capital, said the deployable response groups comprise over 400 personnel stationed at various locations.

According to Philippines News Agency, Auro stated that the establishment of these rescue groups is in response to a directive from their commandant. The Coast Guard-NIR's floating assets are also ready for deployment. Sea travel in many parts of northern Negros Occidental was cancelled after Signal No. 1 was raised over these areas due to Opong, Auro said.

Auro emphasized the importance of small seacraft being conscious of the weather conditions and advised against sailing during the storm. He also urged parents to caution their children about staying outdoors, especially in coastal areas, during bad weather. The Coast Guard will collaborate with the police in emergency response efforts, such as evacuating people during floods.

Shipping lines are now more aware of weather events and have started to cancel trips ahead of Coast Guard directives, Auro noted. He assured the public that the Coast Guard is available 24/7 via hotline, social media, and email to respond to emergencies.

The provinces of Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, and Siquijor comprise the Negros Island Region.