Baguio readies for 'Pepito'

BAGUIO CITY—The City Government of Baguio is preparing for the possible impact of another weather disturbance, typhoon Pepito.

The Baguio City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC), chaired by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, directed all barangay officials to conduct necessary measures in their respective areas of responsibility.

'Pepito' is expected to cross from the waters of Quezon to the waters of La Union from 17 to 18 November with a high probability of hitting Baguio City.

In a pre-disaster risk assessment meeting on Thursday at the mayor's office, CDRRMC members were briefed on the possible scenarios once the weather disturbance strikes.

“The typhoon might hit us at night, so we should be ready to respond to emergency calls with the appropriate equipment, such as spotlights, among others,” Magalong said.

All barangay officials to conduct an inventory of their Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) tools and equipment. The mayor stressed that the barangays should immediately coordinate with our CDRRM in case they lack appropriate tools and equipment needed in responding to calamities.

Members of the CDRRMC were also directed to keep their communication lines open in case a red alert code is activated by Sunday night, depending on the track of the weather disturbance.

The public is also enjoined to employ necessary measures like cleaning their gutters and drainages and canals to ensure free flow of water and avoid clogging, which may result in flooding.