Albay: Local government units in Albay province have decided to suspend face-to-face classes across all levels on Friday as Tropical Depression Wilma threatens the region with severe weather conditions.
According to Philippines News Agency, the suspension affects towns including Malilipot, Rapu-Rapu, Bacacay, Manito, Malinao, Daraga, Libon, Sto. Domingo, Polangui, Oas, Guinobatan, and Camalig. Rapu-Rapu Mayor Romel Galicia advised residents in areas prone to flooding and landslides to prepare and secure their belongings and emergency kits.
In the cities of Tabaco and Legazpi, classes have also been suspended due to risks associated with flooding and safety concerns for students, teachers, and school personnel. Acting Tabaco City Mayor Baby Glenda Ong Bongao stated that schools will transition to alternative learning modalities during this period.
As of early morning, Tropical Depression Wilma was positioned 245 kilometers east of Borongan City, Eastern Samar, advancing west-southwest at 20 kilometers per hour. The depression is packing maximum sustained winds of 45 kph with gusts reaching 55 kph. The southern portion of mainland Masbate, including towns like Cataingan and Placer, is under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1.
In response to the approaching storm, the Department of Health (DOH) in Bicol has distributed health emergency items valued at PHP481,889 to regional offices and the City Health Office of Naga. These commodities are intended to provide immediate medical aid for injuries and health conditions.
The DOH Bicol has activated Health Emergency Response Teams and declared a code white alert status, emphasizing preparedness measures within the department. Bhernard Mongo, DOH Bicol assistant DRRM-H manager, stated that operation centers are active, and emergency teams are on standby. The region has four standby teams that can be deployed as needed to address water sanitation, nutrition, mental health, and public health concerns.
Mongo noted that most health cases are medical, though significant weather disturbances could lead to traumatic injuries, such as those from fallen trees or drowning incidents. The DOH Bicol operates six provincial offices and works alongside local government health teams to manage potential hazards.
