The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Monday activated the “Charlie” protocol – the highest level of emergency preparedness – in seven regions due to the potential impact of Tropical Depression Kristine.
The high-risk areas include Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol Region, Cordillera Administrative Region, and the Eastern Visayas.
Meanwhile, “Bravo” protocol was raised over moderate risk regions that include the Ilocos Region and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The National Capital Region (NCR), Western Visayas, Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao, SOCCSKSARGEN, and Caraga were placed under “Alpha” protocol for being low risk areas.
On the other hand, the Davao Region is assessed as “having no to very low risk.”
According to the 5 p.m. bulletin of state weather bureau of PAGASA on Monday, the tropical depression may intensify into a storm in the next 12 hours, and may reach typhoon status by Thursday.
There are currently 18 areas under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1.
Further, the OCD said that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) estimates that at least 33 million people could be affected by “Kristine.”
On the other hand, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau said there are 21,213 barangays at risk of landslides and floods as a result of the tropical cyclone.
“Regional offices have been instructed to elevate disaster preparedness measures and to communicate any additional support needed to the central office,” the OCD said. “The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Response Clusters are also scheduled to convene to discuss the activation of relevant National Response Clusters.”
“Kristine” is the 11th storm to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility this year.
—Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News
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