Preemptive evacuation can save lives, NDRRMC reminds public

Preemptive evacuation in the face of approaching storms can save lives, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) spokesperson Edgar Posadas said on Sunday.

"Huwag na ho kayong mag-atubili, dalhin niyo 'yung mga basic ninyong pangangailangan. Tingnan niyo 'yung mga bata, matanda, may sakit sa pamilya ninyo, isama ninyo 'yun, i-secure ninyo 'yung bahay niyo, kunin niyo 'yung mga importanteng dokumento at lumikas kayo nang mabilis," Posadas said in an interview on Super Radyo dzBB.

At least 22 people have been killed due to Tropical Depression Usman, which has already weakened into a low-pressure area.

Posadas said that the government has done its part to give timely advisories and facilitate the evacuation of the residents in the areas that were affected by the bad weather, especially those in the Bicol and Eastern Visayas regions.

The active cooperation of the locals is equally crucial, he added.

"The government has played its role here, ang kailangan natin 'yung agaran at sinsero na partisipasyon ng mga tao sa komunidad," Posadas said.

He also commended state weather bureau PAGASA for its accurate forecast, which he said was a sufficient baseline of disaster risk reduction and management among communities.

Posadas said that the regional directors of the Usman-hit Bicol and Eastern Visayas regions were already facilitating on-ground operations and response. — Dona Magsino/BM, GMA News