The Office of Civil Defense in the Negros Island Region (OCD-NIR) has affirmed that the intensified information campaign messaging and crisis communication efforts leading to early evacuation measures were proven effective during the onslaught of Super Typhoon “Uwan” in Negros Island Region (NIR).
According to OCD-NIR Regional Director Donato Sermeno III, improved coordination and heightened public cooperation led to efficient pre-emptive evacuations across the region.
“This is the result of our previous experience sa [Bagyong] ‘Tino.’ So this time, ang mga pumuluyo nangin very cooperative sa ginpa-implement sang LGUs nga pre-emptive evacuations,” Sermeno said.
Sermeno added that despite communication challenges brought by “Uwan,” such as poor cellular signal and network disruptions, government agencies were able to coordinate effectively.
“Nakabulig ang pag-organize sang joint information center through PIA [Philippine Information Agency] kag mga major uniformed services naton, napalab-ot ang communication and the need for pre-emptive evacuations sa aton mga pumuluyo,” he added.
Based on the report of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council-NIR (RDRRMC-NIR), some 4,528 individuals were pre-emptively evacuated before Typhoon “Uwan” made landfall in the region.
In Bago City, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office reported that 110 families or 231 individuals were evacuated from riverside areas.
Meanwhile, 132 residents from three evacuation centers in Silay City were safely relocated, with no damage to houses reported as of November 8.
In Pulupandan town, pre-emptive evacuations began on the morning of November 9 with Mayor Miguel Peña emphasizing that mandatory evacuations would be enforced, particularly for residents living in low-lying and coastal areas.
Councilor Kirk Steven Debulgado of San Enrique town likewise reported that their residents were also evacuated early on the night of November 8.
Government agencies remain on heightened alert and continue to provide essential aid as well as timely and accurate information. (PIA Negros Occidental)