• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR. / THERESA MAE DULMAN
The province of Negros Occidental is on heightened alert as tropical cyclone wind signal no. 1 has been raised, following the entry of Tropical Depression Verbena into the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) issued the alert, signaling the need for early preparations.
According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) 2:00 p.m. forecast yesterday, the typhoon has sustained winds of 45 kilometers per hour near its center, with gusts reaching up to 55 kilometers per hour. The storm’s central pressure is recorded at 1,002 hPa.
Residents can anticipate heavy to intense rainfall across Negros Island Region, ranging from 100 to 200 millimeters until Wednesday, November 26. With it comes the heightened risk of flooding, especially in low-lying areas.
PAGASA warns that rainfall in elevated and mountainous areas may exceed initial projections, compounded by residual moisture from previous days’ rains. Disaster management agencies have been advised to implement all necessary measures to safeguard lives and property.
NEGOCC PREPARES
Bel Ploteña, chief of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), confirmed that the province has completed its pre-disaster risk assessment in coordination with local government units (LGUs). She emphasized that preparations have already been conducted.
“We have identified our needs and the resources that must be prepositioned. Our search and rescue teams, food packs, and evacuation centers are on standby. We are actively preparing all necessary measures,” Ploteña stated, citing that safety measures had been taken.
Forecast models indicate that Typhoon Verbena may cross Cebu before entering the Negros Island Region, with a possible exit via northern Negros. However, Ploteña cautioned that the storm’s trajectory could shift, depending on high-pressure systems, similar to movements observed in previous storms.
“We are monitoring the situation continuously and preparing based on PAGASA’s forecast,” she added.
PREEMPTIVE EVACUATION
In response to the evolving threat, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has issued Executive Order No. 25-24, enacting preemptive evacuations in all high-risk areas across the province. This order elevates the province’s alert status to red, prioritizing public safety.
The executive order mandates all city and municipal mayors to conduct immediate preemptive evacuations, particularly in flood-prone and landslide-prone zones. It also authorizes forced evacuations for residents who refuse to leave despite clear and imminent danger.
The EO is effective immediately and will remain in force until the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) deems the threat has passed.
BACOLOD BLUE ALERT
Bacolod City has been placed on Blue Alert by the local government unit (LGU) as it remains under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 due to the heavy rains brought by Tropical Depression Verbena.
Mayor Greg Gasataya advised residents in coastal and low-lying barangays to cooperate with authorities for preemptive evacuation procedures, should they become necessary.
The decision to activate the Blue Alert status followed a Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment conducted by Gasataya and the Bacolod City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.
“All response units are on standby, closely monitoring weather developments, and ready to mobilize at a moment’s notice,” Gasataya said.
The City Engineer’s Office has also proactively deployed teams for the preemptive clearing and removal of obstructions in culverts to mitigate potential flooding.
Bacolodnons, especially those in flood-prone and low-lying areas, have been urged to stay alert, avoid unnecessary travel, and monitor official advisories.
The city government stressed that its rapid response teams are prepared and actively monitoring the situation.*
