As another potential typhoon moves toward the Philippines, President Duterte has directed government agencies and local government units (LGU) to make the necessary precautions in order to ensure public safety.

During his pre-recorded "Talk to the People" public briefing aired on Monday night, Dec. 13, Duterte noted that a nearby tropical storm may strengthen into a typhoon upon its arrival in the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).



“I direct our government agencies and LGUs as well as to urge our countrymen, especially those who are on or near its projected path, to keep monitoring the situation and conduct all necessary preparations and precautions,” he said.

The Chief Executive issued this order in front of members of his Cabinet.

The tropical storm, which has an international name “Rai”, is expected to enter PAR by Tuesday night and make landfall in Eastern Visayas on Dec. 16.

READ: Signal No. 1 may be raised in eastern parts of Visayas, Mindanao Tuesday afternoon or evening — PAGASA

Once inside PAR, the domestic name “Odette” will be assigned to this weather disturbance.

Duterte also advised residents of areas threatened by the bad weather condition to be ready for immediate evacuation if the need arises.

“All you have to do is to watch TV and makita mo ‘yung (you’ll see the) trajectory, ang takbo ng bagyo (the movement of the typhoon). So kung malapit kayo diyan, medyo umalis na muna kayo (if you are nearby, just leave the area),” he said.

“Iyong precautions, anuhan lang ninyo, sundin lang ninyo (Just follow the precautions),” the President underscored.