Metro LGUs brace for Mawar

MANILA, Philippines —  Local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila are preparing for heavy rain and strong winds spawned by Super Typhoon Mawar, locally called Betty, which is expected to enter the Philippine area of responsibility this weekend.

In Marikina, the city government has mobilized its resources for search and rescue operations, Mayor Marcelino Teodoro said.

Teodoro said the city’s frontline personnel are ready to respond to emergency situations.

Apart from their own manpower, Teodoro said volunteers are also on standby as augmentation forces and ready to assist residents in need of assistance.

With Mawar’s projected strength, Teodoro urged the public to be vigilant.

He reminded residents to comply with authorities in case there is a need to implement forced evacuations.

Teodoro added they are monitoring the water level of the Marikina River.

The local governments of Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela are also preparing for Mawar.

According to Von Villanueva, head of the Navotas Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, food and non-food items are ready for distribution to those who would be affected by the typhoon.

Villanueva said the local police and Bureau of Fire Protection are on standby for rescue operations.

Public schools will be used as evacuation sites, he said.

Malabon Mayor Jeannie Sandoval along with city police chief Col. Amante Daro inspected the Longos floodway yesterday to ensure the safety of residents.

In Valenzuela, Mayor Wes Gatchalian said they have prepared disaster kits good for 3,000 families.

“Rescue equipment and tents are also ready,” he said.

Gatchalian said the P1-billion Valenzuela-Obando-Meycauayan pumping station, which underwent preventive maintenance, is now operational. –  Mark Ernest Villeza