MANILA — In anticipation of the inclement weather brought by the coming tropical cyclone Uwan, Metro Manila already heightened its disaster preparations.
As early as Friday night, November 7, billboards along EDSA were already folded up in anticipation of the strong winds over the weekend.
The Metro Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MMDRRMC) also issued the red disaster alert.
This activated full-scale response protocols, including 24/7 flood control, real-time CCTV monitoring, and immediate deployment of rubber boats, wrecker cranes, payloaders, and buses for evacuations, among others.
Among other cities, Caloocan LGU spearheaded inspecting vulnerable barangays and readied rescue equipment.
Some cities in Metro Manila already suspended classes and work on Monday, November 10.
The City of Las Piñas has suspended classes at all levels, both in public and private schools.
Meanwhile, the Valenzuela City government has also suspended work in its offices, while leaving it to the discretion of private companies to decide whether to suspend operations.
The Metro Manila Council said all NCR LGUs have been taking extensive preparations ahead of the onslaught of Uwan.
"All Metro Manila Local Government Units have been undertaking extensive preparations such as, but not limited to, the mobilization of rescue vehicles and equipment, the pre-positioning of food boxes and medicines in evacuation centers, drainage declogging and tree-cutting operations, and continuous information dissemination to the public," said MMC president, San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora.
"Preemptive evacuation of residents living along waterways and other identified danger zones will be conducted as necessary to ensure their safety."
Zamora added that LGUs operating pumping stations are ensuring 24-hour operations with sufficient personnel and adequate diesel supply.
"Let us all remain prepared and alert as Typhoon Uwan has already entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility. The safety and well-being of every Metro Manila resident remain our foremost concern."
According to state weather bureau PAGASA, Uwan entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility, Friday night.
It is expected to rapidly intensify up to super typhoon strength by late Saturday or early Sunday, hence Signal no. 5 will be the highest wind warning to be raised in which Metro Manila could be placed at Signal no. 4.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. also earlier placed the entire country under a state of calamity, following the onslaught of Typhoon Tino and in anticipation of the possible super typhoon.
Signal No. 2 in parts of Bicol, Samar as 'Uwan' picks up speed
RELATED VIDEO: