SUPER TYPHOON. Government workers of Apayao province ready food stocks on Tuesday (May 25, 2023) in preparation for the incoming Super Typhoon Mawar. Local residents were urged to heed precautions and evacuation orders if necessary. (Photo courtesy of Provincial Government of Apayao)
LAOAG CITY — The Apayao provincial government is taking proactive measures and bracing for the incoming Super Typhoon Mawar (local name Betty) which is expected to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) in the next few days.
As of 4 p.m. Tuesday, Mawar was spotted 2,285 kilometers east of the Visayas area, outside the PAR, with a maximum sustained winds of 185 kilometers per hour near the center, and gustiness of up to 230 kph.
It is currently moving northward at 15 kph.
It is projected to enter PAR by Friday evening (May 26) or Saturday morning (May 27).
As moderate to heavy rains are now being experienced in some parts of the province, Governor Elias Bulut Jr. on Tuesday directed local officials to mobilize the necessary resources to prepare for the super typhoon.
On Tuesday afternoon, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) has been activated to coordinate the overall response efforts.
Emergency response teams, including rescue units, medical personnel, and relief workers, have been put on standby and will be deployed to vulnerable areas across the province.
Bulut also urged residents to remain vigilant and follow the advisories and warnings issued by authorities.
Evacuation centers established in safe locations will be equipped with adequate supplies and facilities to accommodate those who may be affected by the typhoon.
The provincial government is also making arrangements to ensure the availability of essential goods and services during and after the storm.
“The safety and well-being of the people is our priority,” said Bulut in a statement as he urged residents to heed evacuation orders if necessary and advised them to stock up on essential supplies, secure their homes, and take necessary precautions to safeguard their families. (PNA)
