MANILA, Philippines – The Philippine Government through the Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas urged the public to reconsider their vacation plans if they are set to visit areas to be affected by typhoon Chedeng during the holidays.
“Please adjust your travel plans…tatama siya sa may Isabela- Aurora-Northern Quezon areas anytime between Saturday evening and Sunday morning. Mag-ingat po tayo!” Roxas said.
For those who are currently staying in these places, Roxas encouraged them to return to their homes by Friday, a day before Chedeng is expected to make its first landfall.
“We can’t afford to risk the safety of the residents and an estimated 10,000 tourists in the various towns on the Eastern seabord,” Roxas said.
As of Thursday morning, typhoon Chedeng slightly weakened at 175 kph sustained winds, with gusts up to 215 kph, and now moving north. Its diameter also decreased from 700 km to 500 km.
Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected but are not enough to cause flooding and dam overflow. Storm surges are also likely to occur, making coastal tourist attractions highly vulnerable to the typhoon’s possible effects.
The DILG has already alerted the local governments, the Philippine National Police (PNP), the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and other government agencies to relay pertinent information, offer assistance to stranded travelers, as well as to ensure the safety of all people in the identified areas.
“Listo lang po lagi tayo, and should you need any assistance, the whole of government is at your service,” Roxas said.
DILG to public: Reconsider travel plans if you can
