Palace to public: Be cautious, listen, help in clean-up

MANILA, Philippines – As typhoon “Glenda” weakens and moves farther from Luzon, Malacañang on Wednesday told the public to remain abreast on the situation and lend a hand in the clean-up of communities after.

“We ask the public to continue monitoring media and online resources to keep updated on the weather and advisories concerning clean-up and restoring services,” Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a statement.

Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO

He said initial reports showed that many areas were able to achieve their goal of having zero casualty.

“As we begin the work of restoring services and repairing the damage caused by Typhoon Glenda, let us take stock of the manner in which the public, media, local and national  government agencies worked together to ensure preparations were in place, and information disseminated effectively and in a timely manner, during the approach and progress of the storm,” Lacierda added.

The spokesperson said President Benigno Aquino III continues to monitor the status of the typhoon and the situation on the ground.

Meanwhile, concerned agencies continue to attend to evacuees, survey damaged infrastructure and clear roads.

“We appreciate the cooperation and assistance of the public in these tasks. Our priorities at this point are the health and welfare of evacuees, and the return of power and communications to communities. As developments arise and services are restored, rest assured the public will be kept informed,” Lacierda said.

As of Wednesday afternoon, close to 90 percent of the customers of Manila Electric Co. (Meralco) were affected by power outages after the typhoon’s strong winds toppled multiple power lines. Most of those affected are from Southern Tagalog provinces of Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon.

The Armed Forces of the Philippines also reportedly deployed two Air Force helicopters to conduct aerial inspection of Metro Manila and its coastal areas.

“Glenda” is expected to leave the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Thursday morning.

RELATED STORIES

‘Glenda’ weakens, leaves PAR Thursday

Safety tips during and after a typhoon

`Glenda’ spares Metro; 7 dead