CAPIZ – The Capiz Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) placed the entire province under Red Alert Status at 8 p.m. on September 25, as authorities braced for the impact of Tropical Storm “Opong.”
The move came after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) raised Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 2 over Pilar, Pontevedra, President Roxas, Cuartero, Dao, Dumalag, Dumarao, Jamindan, Maayon, Mambusao, Panitan, Sigma, and Tapaz, and Signal No. 3 over Roxas City, Ivisan, Panay, and Sapian.
Meteorologists warned of heavy rains, strong winds, and possible flooding in low-lying areas, urging residents to prepare for emergencies. Local authorities advised securing loose items, preparing emergency kits, and closely monitoring official advisories.
In line with Memorandum Circular No. 102 from Malacañang, all classes in public schools across Capiz were suspended on Sept. 26 to ensure the safety of students and faculty.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) suspended all sea travel at Culasi Port in Roxas City, including departures and arrivals of vessels bound for neighboring provinces. The advisory followed PAGASA’s upgraded warning, with Capiz under higher storm signals.
The PCG urged passengers to avoid unnecessary travel and refrain from going to ports to prevent possible stranding. Port operations will resume once weather conditions improve and authorities declare it safe./PN
