ANTIQUE — The Provincial Government of Antique, through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), is aiming for zero casualty as Tropical Storm “Tino” threatens to affect Western Visayas, including the province of Antique.
On Sunday, November 2, Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (LDRRMO) Broderick Train issued an advisory to all Barangay and Municipal DRRMCs and the general public titled “Weather Advisory, Preparedness Measures, and Travel Restrictions in Connection with Tropical Cyclone Tino for Public Safety.”
“In view of the potential threats posed by Tropical Storm Tino, all Local DRRMCs, response cluster member agencies, and the general public are hereby directed to take precautionary measures and remain on heightened alert for the anticipated adverse effects of the disturbance,” Train stated in the advisory.
Train directed all Provincial, Municipal, and Barangay DRRMCs, along with their respective response clusters, to activate their Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs) under blue alert status to ensure maximum preparedness and coordination across all levels. The alert may be elevated to red status should significant rainfall or other severe effects of the typhoon occur.
The advisory also urged local councils to keep their EOCs manned 24/7 and to submit regular situation updates. They were instructed to strengthen risk communication by promptly relaying weather advisories and warnings to the public, and to raise awareness of possible heavy rains, flooding, landslides, and strong winds, particularly in high-risk areas. Councils were likewise directed to maintain operational readiness and continuous monitoring within their areas of responsibility, coordinate closely with media partners for unified and timely advisories, and conduct scenario-building and planning for pre-, during-, and post-typhoon response. The implementation of preemptive or forced evacuations was also encouraged when necessary to ensure public safety.
The LDRRMO likewise urged families and communities to remain vigilant and follow safety measures. Residents were advised to conduct hazard assessments in their homes and neighborhoods, prepare for preemptive evacuation, and secure livestock ahead of time. They were also encouraged to monitor weather updates from PAGASA, local DRRMOs, and reliable media sources, and to keep a family “Go Bag” ready with essentials such as food, water, medicines, flashlight, radio, whistle, important documents, and cash.
The public was reminded to avoid coastal and fishing activities, especially for small boats, and to immediately return to shore when seas become rough. They were also cautioned not to cross rivers with rising water levels or strong currents. Residents were further urged to secure roofs, outdoor items, and farm structures, and to prune trees or weak branches that could cause injury or damage during the storm.
The public is also advised to avoid non-essential travel as road, sea, and air transport may be disrupted due to strong winds, flooding, and possible landslides. Residents are urged to stay indoors and avoid exposure to hazardous weather conditions.
Train reminded all local councils and response clusters to ensure the readiness of evacuation centers, early warning systems, and response assets to minimize risks.
“Let us aim for zero casualty. Everyone is urged to remain vigilant, continuously monitor official advisories, and prioritize safety at all times,” Train emphasized./PN
