Sorsogon implements forced evacuation amid storm surge threat

A Mormon temple in Sorsogon converted into an evacuation center for residents of coastal villages in Matnog. INQUIRER.net/NOY MORCOSO

MATNOG, Sorsogon—Families living in the coastal areas in Matnog town in Sorsogon were brought to higher ground after the local government ordered their forced evacuation due to typhoon “Ruby” (international name: Hagupit).

Barangay Captain Nanette Buffete said 50 families in barangay (village) Caloocan were evacuated midday Saturday due to the threat of a storm surge.

Buffete said the families were brought to the barangay hall and to the parish church as their designated evacuation centers.

She said pre-emptive measures have been implemented based on the lessons they learned from the devastation of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” and typhoon “Glenda.”

Relief goods were also prepared for immediate distribution to residents.

As of midday Saturday, public storm signal number 3 was raised in the entire province.

As of posting time, Sorsogon province has been experiencing strong winds and heavy rainfall as Ruby continues to move closer to land.