(Manila, 8th, Comprehensive Report) Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos stated on Saturday that as Typhoon Ugong (international name Fung-wong) intensifies and gradually approaches northern Luzon, all relevant government agencies have entered a state of full alert.
In a statement, Marcos called on the public to remain calm while staying vigilant, emphasizing preparedness to minimize the possible impact of the typhoon.
“We are closely monitoring changes in the strength of Typhoon Ugong and its approach to northern Luzon,” the President said.
“All government agencies are on full alert and taking immediate action to ensure public safety.”
“All government agencies are on full alert and taking immediate action to ensure public safety.”
The president reminded the public to follow the safety instructions of local government units (LGUs), evacuate dangerous areas immediately when necessary, prepare essential supplies, and stay closely updated on official announcements.
He stressed that unity is key to ensuring safety, every second is crucial, and any complacency is unacceptable.
He stressed that unity is key to ensuring safety, every second is crucial, and any complacency is unacceptable.
The Department of Transportation and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board have deployed buses and trucks to assist residents affected by the typhoon in evacuation. Meanwhile, the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Public Works and Highways, the Philippine Armed Forces, and the Coast Guard have positioned rescue vehicles, lifeboats, and relief supplies in potentially affected areas.
The president noted that emergency convoys and rescue teams will be exempted from toll fees, and dedicated lanes will be opened to speed up access to high-risk areas. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and local governments are also clearing waterways and road obstructions. Some malls and buildings have opened parking lots for residents from flood-prone areas to use.
According to the meteorological agency, Ugong is currently located 680 kilometers east of Borongan City in Eastern Samar and 760 kilometers east of Catarman in Northern Samar, moving west at a speed of 35 kilometers per hour, with a maximum sustained wind near the center of 140 kilometers per hour and gusts up to 170 kilometers per hour.
The weather bureau forecasts that Ugong may rapidly strengthen and reach a super typhoon level on Saturday night or Sunday, and does not rule out the possibility of faster intensification due to favorable environmental conditions.