Metro Manila families evacuate ahead of Pepito

MANILA, Philippines — In anticipation of the impact of Super Typhoon Pepito, the Quezon City government yesterday conducted preemptive evacuation of over 700 residents.

As of 2 p.m. yesterday, the city government said 266 families or 772 people have relocated to six evacuation centers in five barangays.

Members of the city disaster risk reduction and management office went around the city to conduct preemptive evacuation of residents in low-lying and flood-prone areas, including those in Barangays Damayan, Bagong Silangan and Sto. Domingo.

Search and rescue vehicles have also been deployed in strategic areas.

City hall advised residents to prepare emergency go-bags and follow safety protocols.

For emergencies, residents may call the Quezon City Helpline 122 for immediate response.

Malabon on ‘red alert’

The Malabon government has declared a “red alert” status to activate disaster and emergency response measures as Pepito is expected to bring rains and floods in Metro Manila.

Boats and rescue vehicles have been mobilized for emergencies during Pepito’s onslaught.

Mayor Jeannie Sandoval earlier met with barangay leaders to discuss disaster preparedness, including situational updates and preemptive evacuation plans.

A pre-disaster assessment meeting was held to identify flood-prone areas and minimize Pepito’s impact.

Around 167 local government personnel were on duty yesterday to implement disaster response measures.

About 13 boats and five tents were pre-positioned in Malabon’s barangays for immediate use.

Thirteen evacuation sites were opened for residents in low-lying areas.

Eighteen families or 84 people took shelter at the Panghulo Elementary School yesterday following preemptive evacuation.

About 200 food packs containing rice, canned goods, water, coffee and noodles were prepared for the evacuees.

In Muntilupa, the local government conducted preemptive evacuation of residents in flood-prone areas.

Mayor Ruffy Biazon ordered the distribution of aid to 980 families who are taking shelter in evacuation sites.

The city government distributed cooked meals to the affected families. An area was allocated for breastfeeding mothers.

A medical team was also deployed in evacuation centers. — Daphne Galvez