President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced Saturday that all concerned government agencies are now on full alert as Typhoon Uwan (international name Fung-wong) intensifies and is approaching Northern Luzon.
In a statement, the President urged the public to remain calm but vigilant, stressing the importance of preparedness to mitigate the typhoon’s potential adverse effects.
“We continue to monitor how Typhoon Uwan intensifies as it approaches Northern Luzon,” Marcos said. “All government agencies are on full alert and have taken immediate action to ensure the safety of our fellow citizens.”
The President advised the public to adhere strictly to safety advisories from local government units (LGUs) and to continuously monitor weather updates. “Follow the advisories of your LGU and evacuate immediately if you live in a dangerous area. Prepare your essential needs and stay tuned to official announcements,” he said, noting that complacency has no room as “every second counts.”
Following the President’s order, the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) have deployed buses and trucks to assist in the evacuation process. Key emergency agencies have also prepositioned critical assets. Among these are the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG). Strategically placed were rescue vehicles, lifeboats, and relief goods in areas expected to be impacted by the typhoon.
Addressing infrastructure and access, the government has announced the suspension of toll fees for emergency convoys and responders, with special lanes designated on major thoroughfares to ensure faster movement into high-risk areas.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and local governments are actively engaged in clearing waterways and removing obstacles from roads as a critical flood mitigation measure. Support is also being offered by the private sector, with several malls and buildings opening their parking areas to provide temporary, safer storage for the vehicles of residents residing in frequently flooded communities.
In its 11 a.m. weather advisory, Pagasa said Uwan was located 680 km east of Borongan City, Eastern Samar, or 760 km east of Catarman, Northern Samar, moving westward at 35 kph.
Uwan is currently packing maximum sustained winds of 140 kph near the center and gustiness of up to 170 kph. The weather bureau forecasts that Uwan will rapidly intensify and may reach Super Typhoon category either by Saturday night or Sunday, noting that faster intensification cannot be ruled out due to a favorable environment.