Cebu City braces for Kalag-kalag, La Niña, TD Kristine

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City’s Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office is now on “blue alert” status beginning today in preparation for the effects of Tropical Depression Kristine and the unpredictable downpours from at the start of the La Nina phenomenon.

The heightened alert status of the responders was also activated for the annual Kalag-Kalag celebrations which are expected to draw in huge crowd to the cemeteries, at the port areas and at the bus terminals.

Yesterday, Mayor Raymond Garcia approved the recommendation of CCDRMO chief Harold Alcontin to place “on standby” personnel from the CCDRMO and other relevant offices and departments for possible emergencies.

In PAGASA’s recent update, most climate models combined with expert judgments suggest a 71 percent chance of La Niña forming in Sept-Oct-Nov (SON) 2024 season.

The phenomenon will likely persist until March or until the first quarter of 2025.

Aside from that, the city government is also closely monitoring Tropical Depression Kristine with CCDRRMO consultant Engr. Oscar Tabada, a former regional director of PAGASA, on top in giving updates on the new weather disturbance.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant, Admiral Ronnie Gil L Gavan has also directed all Coast Guard operating units to be on heightened alert for the upcoming Kalag-Kalag from October 31 until November 05, 2024.

PCG Districts, Stations, and Sub-Stations were told to intensify the safety, security, reliability, and comfort of the riding public in relation to influx of passengers because of Kalag-Kalag.

Coast Guard K9 units will also be deployed in the City’s port area. — (FREEMAN)