Gov’t agencies begin preparations for Super Typhoon Bavi

MANILA, Philippines — Government agencies are preparing to issue travel advisories and deliver relief goods ahead of Super Typhoon “Bavi” which will be named “Inday” once it enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) either Tuesday night or Wednesday morning.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) said it will immediately issue travel advisories to public transport companies, including operators of buses, UV Express and trucks, to warn motorists of potential suspensions amid the typhoon.

“I have already directed all [Regional Franchising and Regulatory Offices] to maximize the use of our social media accounts to warn motorists and PUV drivers on travel suspensions to ensure the welfare of all,” said LTFRB Chair Vigor Mendoza.

READ: Evacuations ordered in preparation for Bavi

He also ordered regional directors in areas expected to be affected by the typhoon to coordinate with local disaster risk reduction and management councils when it comes to public safety preparations. 

The LTFRB will also coordinate with the Department of Public Works and Highways for road closures, and the Philippine Ports Authority for bans on sea travel, Mendoza added.

While the typhoon has a low chance of making landfall over the country, the state weather bureau said the intensity and extent of the strong winds from the center of Bavi may cause wind signals to be raised over the northern and eastern portions of northern Luzon.

“The highest wind signal that may be hoisted during its passage is likely Signal No. 2 or 3,” the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration said in its 11 am advisory on Tuesday.

It added that wind signals over the eastern portions of southern Luzon and Visayas may also be raised because of the typhoon.

Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Monday said its disaster response units have been placed on high alert in preparation for the super typhoon.

DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said the agency has begun the strategic deployment of relief resources that will be delivered to local government units along the projected path of the typhoon. 

As of Monday, the agency has over 4.7 million family food packs worth over P3 billion strategically positioned nationwide. This includes 364,283 ready-to-eat food boxes and 271,446 non-food items.

“Reminder to our fellow citizens to ensure their own safety and of their families, and, of course, listen to announcements of your local government and relevant agencies,” Dumlao said in Filipino. With a report from Marc Andre Esguerra, intern /mr