Govt agencies told to brace for Marce

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday directed all government agencies to remain on high alert as the country braces for Typhoon Marce.

Marcos also reiterated the need to ensure that relevant information reaches communities promptly and that on-the-ground situations are reported accurately.

“To all the government agencies, you all know the drill. I am placing you all on high alert. Let’s start having an efficient system of communication for the speedy dissemination of information to the public,” he said.

STORM’S PATH Rosalie Pagulayan, officer in charge of the Hydrometeorology Division of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, gives an update on the location of Typhoon Marce in Quezon City on Nov. 6, 2024. PHOTO BY ISMAEL DE JUAN

He also tasked units at all levels of government, including those that can reinforce rescue and relief operations, to prepare their equipment and vehicles. Authorities were also told to monitor water levels in waterways and reservoirs, a follow-up to his earlier order to the Department of Science and Technology to improve their warning systems and establish a standard procedure for the gradual release of water from dams before typhoons make landfall to reduce flood risks.

“Prepare all rescue equipment at all levels of government, from all agencies who can lend them, especially vehicles,” he said.