CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – The Provincial Government of Pampanga is all set for the possible onslaught of Typhoon Lawin which is seen to pass by Northern and Central Luzon this week.
Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) head Angie Blanco said rescuers are on standby as they wait for the advisories to be released by Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Service Administration (PAGASA).
Blanco added that equipment and rescue boats are also ready together with the food packs in case they are needed. Evacuation centers are also available if the situation calls for it.
The PDRRMO is also monitoring the situation of coastal and upland barangays for possible flash floods and landslides.
“The local government units (LGU) as well as the barangay officials are also in close coordination with us so in terms of preparedness, I think we are really set for it,” she said.
Blanco is hoping that the province will be spared from the damage of the incoming typhoon.
Blanco added that floodwaters from Nueva Ecija will also be monitored as it flows down to Pampanga River which can affect Arayat, Candaba, San Luis, San Simon, Apalit, Macabebe and Masantol.
“Let’s hope and pray na hindi ganun kalaki yung pinsala,” she said.
She also advised the Kapampangans not to panic and prepare for the possible disaster brought by the typhoon. She also said that they should also listen to their village and municipal officials.
Typhoon Lawin (international name: Haima) is expected to hit the country Thursday morning and is seen to pass by Northern and Central Luzon as per the advisory of PAGASA.
Blanco is also thankful that the province was not greatly affected by the recent typhoon Karen where only 38 barangays in some towns were flooded due to the rains in Nueva Ecija.
PHILIP OCAMPO
