The Valenzuela City government announced on Friday, May 26, that trucks and other equipment for disaster response are ready for deployment to ensure the safety of city residents once Typhoon “Betty” (international name: Mawar) enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).
Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian directed the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (VCDRRMO) to ensure that all “Libreng Sakay Trucks” are in good condition and ready for deployment along MacArthur Highway to ferry stranded passengers.
Rescue equipment like rubber and motor boats and vests as well as schools and multipurpose buildings that will serve as evacuation centers were also prepared.
(Photo from Valenzuela City Public Information Office/ MANILA BULLETIN)
It added that all pumping stations in the city were also checked to make sure that they are working, while water pumps were also installed in case of flooding in different areas.
Early warning sirens were also placed in the city to alert residents and city personnel during heavy rains.
The city government also cancelled the Valenzuela Summer Sports Camp scheduled on May 27-28 for the safety of the participating athletes.
Meanwhile, the Quezon City government also announced that its Payatas Controlled Disposal Facility Bike Park and Dog Park will temporarily be closed on Friday, May 26, due to the anticipated inclement weather.
In Navotas City, street sweepers started cleaning in different areas and to prevent the clogging of wastes on waterways that may lead to flooding.
The local government reminded residents to avoid throwing garbage into canals and drainages for their safety during heavy rains.
Typhoon Betty, with the international name “Mawar” is expected to enter PAR Friday evening, May 26, or Saturday morning, May 27, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, Astronomical, Services Administration (PAG-ASA).