Marcos assures quick assistance to Aghon-hit communities

MANILA – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Sunday directed local government units (LGUs), emergency services, and concerned government agencies to extend necessary assistance to localities affected by Tropical Storm Aghon.

In a social media post, the president called on the public to keep their vigilance and prioritize their safety as Aghon moves across the country’s waters.

“As Tropical Storm #AghonPH continues to move across our country, I urge everyone in the affected areas to stay vigilant and prioritize your safety,” Marcos said.

“The well-being of our people is our utmost priority. I have directed local government units, emergency services, and all relevant agencies to work tirelessly in monitoring the situation and providing necessary assistance,” he added.

Marcos assured that “food and non-food items, health services, and evacuation centers are all being mobilized to support affected communities.”

“Let us all look out for one another, especially the most vulnerable members of our communities. Together, we will get through this storm,” he said.

In its 8 a.m. update Sunday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said around 513 families or 2,734 persons from 18 barangays in Regions 5 (Bicol) and 8 (Eastern Visayas) have been affected so far by Aghon.

Aghon was last seen near Mauban town in Quezon, moving northwestward at 15 km/h, as of the 2 p.m. update.

According to state weather bureau PAGASA, Aghon is seen to cross the mainland Calabarzon and Polillo Islands in the next 24 hours.

Aghon may weaken into a tropical depression while over mainland Calabarzon due to land interaction, the weather bureau said.

However, it is forecasted to intensify into a severe tropical storm on Tuesday and possibly reach the typhoon category while still within the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR).

Aghon is seen to leave PAR on Wednesday. (PNA)