ILOILO CITY — Iloilo braces for Typhoon Uwan, with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) urging the suspension of classes and government work on Monday, November 10, to prevent casualties and disaster-related chaos.

During an emergency virtual meeting on November 8, the PDRRMC laid out precautionary measures, citing forecasts from PAGASA and the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) that warn of heavy to torrential rains, strong winds, and potential flooding across the province.

PDRRMO Chief Cornelio Salinas stressed the need for early action.
“We cannot wait for disaster to strike. Preemptive measures are crucial to save lives. This is why we recommend suspending classes and work in anticipation of Typhoon Uwan,” he said.

PAGASA Iloilo reports that Uwan is rapidly intensifying and may reach supertyphoon strength by tonight or tomorrow morning. Moderate to heavy rainfall is expected on Sunday and Monday, with gusts reaching strong to gale-force winds in vulnerable areas.

As of 11 a.m., northern and central Iloilo are under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1, covering Carles, Estancia, Balasan, San Dionisio, Concepcion, Batad, Sara, Ajuy, Barotac Viejo, San Rafael, Lemery, Lambunao, Calinog, Bingawan, San Enrique, Anilao, Banate, Dingle, Dueñas, Janiuay, Badiangan, Mina, Pototan, Barotac Nuevo, Maasin, Cabatuan, New Lucena, Santa Barbara, Zarraga, Dumangas, Leon, Alimodian, and Passi City.

Authorities warn that in a worst-case scenario, Signal No. 2 may be raised for the entire province, signaling the need for heightened vigilance, immediate preparations, and compliance with evacuation orders.

Salinas urged residents to stay alert, secure homes, and follow official advisories from local government units and PAGASA.
“Early action saves lives. Do not wait until the floodwaters rise or winds lash your communities,” he said.