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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider OCD: Public must treat weather knowledge as daily necessity, not just for disasters

OCD: Public must treat weather knowledge as daily necessity, not just for disasters

Published Jul 30, 2025 01:43 pm

At A Glance

  • OCD urges public to treat weather literacy as a daily necessity.
  • Message delivered during DRRM orientation for media on July 30 in Mandaluyong City.
  • PAGASA explains how weather systems affect daily life and national safety.
  • Localized forecasts highlighted as crucial in decision-making for communities.
Engr. Lorenzo A. Moron of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) explains early warning technologies during the One-Day DRRM Orientation for Media organized by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on July 30, 2025, in Mandaluyong City. The activity underscored the importance of weather literacy as a daily necessity amid rising climate risks.
Engr. Lorenzo A. Moron of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) explains early warning technologies during the One-Day DRRM Orientation for Media organized by the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on July 30, 2025, in Mandaluyong City. The activity underscored the importance of weather literacy as a daily necessity amid rising climate risks.
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Wednesday, July 30, urged Filipinos to treat weather literacy as a daily necessity rather than merely a disaster response measure, citing the country’s continued exposure to severe storms and climate-related threats.
In a one-day orientation on disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) for media, the OCD stressed that understanding weather systems is vital to making informed decisions that protect lives and property.
The event featured a technical lecture from Engr. Lorenzo A. Moron of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), who discussed how tropical cyclones, monsoons, and large-scale atmospheric systems develop and impact the country.
“This isn’t just about storm tracking—it’s about helping people, from farmers to commuters, make informed choices every day,” the OCD said.
Moron explained that weather affects daily life beyond emergencies, influencing clothing, travel, food preferences, and even emotional well-being.
“Weather is not just about umbrellas and raincoats,” he said. “It shapes how we live, what we eat, what we wear, and how we move.”
He added that with the Philippines experiencing an average of 19 to 20 tropical cyclones each year—nearly half making landfall—there is an urgent need for the public to understand how storms form and why the country remains highly vulnerable.
“A typhoon doesn’t just appear,” he said. “It forms through specific ingredients—warm seas, moist air, and wind patterns—all powered by the sun.”
Moron noted that weather awareness plays a critical role in agriculture, urban planning, and event scheduling, citing farmers who choose climate-resilient crops and individuals who adjust their activities based on forecasts.
The OCD said it continues to work with PAGASA in deploying regional forecasters to issue localized advisories, particularly in NCR, CALABARZON, and Central Luzon.
“Our regional experts are available to explain what’s happening in the atmosphere—and why it matters on the ground,” the OCD said.
Moron also warned against complacency during storms, recalling the deceptive calm of Typhoon Yolanda’s eye before deadly winds and storm surges struck.
“Storm surges don’t always come with dark skies—they strike when least expected,” he said.
The OCD urged the public to view weather literacy as a practical, everyday skill that fosters a culture of preparedness—not only for disasters, but for safer and smarter living.

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