LGUs told to complete evacuations by Sunday ahead of Typhoon ‘Uwan’

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Friday urged local government units to complete preemptive and mandatory evacuations of high-risk communities by Sunday, 9 November, as Tropical Storm Fung-Wong intensifies while approaching the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

The directive follows a situation briefing led by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., where national and local agencies were ordered to heighten preparedness amid the potential landfall of the storm, which will be given the local name Uwan once inside PAR.

According to PAGASA’s 11:00 a.m. advisory, Fung-Wong was estimated at 1,690 km east of Northeastern Mindanao with maximum sustained winds of 75 km/h and gusts reaching 90 km/h. It is moving northwest at 10 km/h and may strengthen into a typhoon by Friday and possibly a super typhoon by Saturday.

A landfall over Northern or Central Luzon remains likely by Monday, 10 November.

“We are calling on all local chief executives to complete the evacuation of residents in high-risk areas no later than Sunday. Early evacuation saves lives,” the DILG stressed, reminding LGUs to plan based on worst-case scenarios.

The agency also directed LGUs to prepare evacuation centers with sufficient food, water, generator sets, and sanitation facilities; ensure proper management of evacuees; and maintain close coordination with Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils.

PAGASA warned that weather conditions will begin to deteriorate over eastern Luzon by Sunday, with potentially life-threatening winds, flooding, and storm surges expected in Northern and Central Luzon by Monday and Tuesday.

A no-sailing policy, suspension of tourism and outdoor activities in vulnerable areas, and early mobilization of clearing and response teams were also ordered.

“We cannot be complacent. The next 48 hours are crucial for preparedness. We urge everyone to stay informed, follow local advisories, and cooperate with authorities,” the DILG said.