As Super Typhoon ‘Marwa’ threatens to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility by the evening of May 26 or the early morning of May 27, Baguio City is taking proactive measures to ensure preparedness. The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) held a Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) meeting on May 24 to discuss the city’s preparedness and concerns.
The CDRRM Council (CDRRMC) and the city’s barangay district chairpersons took part in the virtual meeting, with each barangay reporting their preparedness status and raising issues in their areas. A significant concern raised by several barangays was the presence of trees that were at risk of falling. To address this, personnel from the Benguet Electric Cooperative (BENECO) and City Environment and Parks Management Office were called to handle the situation before the storm’s arrival.
Antonette Anaban, head of CDRRMO and chief secretariat of the CDRRMC, reported that the city’s evacuation centers were prepared and stocked with necessary food supplies, with available personnel from the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
Additionally, the City Engineering Office (CEO) has commenced monitoring and clearing operations of the city lagoon. Barangays have also been tasked with clearing waterways within their jurisdictions.
Anaban issued a public reminder to stay updated on the storm’s progress, given its unpredictable nature, and to be prepared for any eventualities. “As individuals and in our own households, we should be aware of our surroundings and practice the necessary safety precautions. We should take responsibility for our own safety and that of our families and not solely rely on the government,” she stressed.
Baguio City residents are advised to continuously monitor weather reports, ensure sufficient food and water supplies, carry out any necessary home repairs, secure pets in safe places, and evacuate immediately and calmly if directed by authorities to avoid flash floods and landslides.
