Bicol: The Bicol Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC) has issued an advisory urging provincial disaster risk reduction management councils to discourage coastal activities in areas potentially affected by rising sea levels and strong currents after a magnitude 8.7 earthquake struck Kamchatka, Russia, on Wednesday. Claudio Yucot, regional director of the Office of Civil Defense and chair of the RDRRMC, emphasized the need for continuous coordination and monitoring of coastal areas in the provinces of Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Albay, and Sorsogon.

According to Philippines News Agency, Yucot also requested the Coast Guard District Bicol to safeguard coastal areas to prevent fishermen from sailing, as strong currents and rapid seawater changes are anticipated. Albay Governor Noel Rosal has alerted residents in coastal areas to remain vigilant for unusual wave activity. A minor sea level disturbance advisory has been issued by Phivolcs, with Albay expected to see tsunami waves of less than 1 meter.

Residents have been advised to stay away from the beach and avoid going to the coast, while boats should be secured and moved away from the waterfront. In Catanduanes, classes have been suspended in various coastal barangays of Bato and Baras towns to ensure safety. Schools affected in Baras include Genitligan Elementary School, Agban Elementary and Senior High School, Benticayan Elementary School, along with Putsan, Danao, Moning, Tilod, Salvacion, and Baras Central Elementary Schools.

In Bato, classes and work have also been suspended in Marinawa, Batalay, Pananaogan, Carorian, Cagraray, and at TESDA Cabugao. The suspensions aim to ensure the safety of students, school staff, and families living in areas that may be impacted by rising sea levels and strong currents.