MANILA — The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has ordered all local government units (LGUs) to complete mandatory evacuations of residents in high-risk communities by Sunday, ahead of the expected landfall of severe tropical storm Fung-Wong, which will be named “Uwan” once it enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
The DILG specifically instructed LGU officials not to wait for worsening weather conditions before moving residents from areas prone to flooding and landslides.
“Early evacuation saves lives. We’re asking all local chief executives to complete preemptive or mandatory evacuations no later than Sunday,” the DILG said in a statement on Friday.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), Fung-Wong was last tracked 1,690 kilometers east of northeastern Mindanao, with maximum sustained winds of 75 kilometers per hour and gusts of up to 90 kph. The storm is projected to enter PAR by late Friday or early Saturday, intensify into a typhoon by Friday night, and potentially strengthen into a super typhoon by Saturday.
The storm is forecast to make landfall in northern or central Luzon by Monday.
The DILG reminded LGUs to ensure that evacuation centers are properly equipped with supplies, power sources, and personnel to attend to evacuees. Officials were also advised to maintain continuous coordination with regional disaster councils and implement clear public information campaigns.
“We cannot be complacent. The next 48 hours are crucial for preparedness. We urge everyone to stay informed and cooperate with authorities,” the DILG said.
Authorities have also ordered the suspension of sea travel, outdoor tourism, and recreational activities in areas within the storm’s projected path. LGUs were instructed to deploy road-clearing teams and secure access routes for emergency and relief operations.
PAGASA warned that eastern Luzon could experience deteriorating weather by Sunday, with strong winds, heavy rainfall, storm surges, and coastal flooding expected. Gale warnings may be raised as early as Saturday.
