Cebu on Alert as Severe Tropical Storm Opong Sweeps the Visayas

Local governments across Cebu have raised preparedness measures as Severe Tropical Storm Opong continues to affect the Visayas. With Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 hoisted over the province, residents are urged to remain vigilant against flooding, landslides, and coastal hazards.

The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG-7) has suspended all sea travel in Central Visayas, leaving hundreds of passengers and dozens of vessels stranded in Cebu ports.

Classes have also been suspended in several northern towns, including Tuburan, San Remigio, Santa Fe, Tabogon, Medellin, Bantayan, and Madridejos.

Opong has affected multiple regions beyond Cebu, prompting Malacañang to suspend government work and classes in several provinces following the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

• Eastern Visayas: Eastern Samar, Northern Samar, Samar, Biliran, and Leyte are under storm signals, with flooding and landslides reported in low-lying areas.
• The Bicol Region, comprising Masbate, Sorsogon, Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, and Catanduanes, has experienced heavy rains and strong winds. Masbate’s Palanas town was hit by Opong’s second landfall, damaging homes and infrastructure.
• MIMAROPA: Romblon, Marinduque, and Oriental Mindoro are bracing for possible landfall and storm surges.
• Calabarzon: Batangas, Cavite, Laguna, Quezon, and Rizal have suspended classes due to heavy rains.
• Metro Manila: Government offices and schools are closed as precautionary measures, with PAGASA warning of possible flooding in flood-prone districts.
• Western Visayas: Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental are also under advisories, with localized evacuations in coastal towns.

The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) has confirmed casualties in the Bicol Region, while thousands of families across Luzon and Visayas have been evacuated to temporary shelters.

Safety Reminders
– Stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel.
– Prepare emergency kits with food, water, medicines, and flashlights.
– Keep important documents in waterproof containers.
– Monitor official advisories from PAGASA, PCG, and local disaster councils.

Authorities continue to urge the public to remain calm, prepared, and responsive to official advisories.

For the latest updates, check the PAGASA weather bulletin here.