Enforce preemptive evacuation amid 'Nando' threat, DILG tells LGUs
By Chito Chavez
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) directed on Sunday, Sept. 21, all concerned local government units (LGUs) to immediately initiate preemptive evacuation and critical safety measures as typhoon Nando has intensified into a super typhoon.
The DILG issued the statement after "Nando" developed into a super typhoon.
DILG Secretary Juanito Victor “Jonvic’’ Remulla said LGUs must waste no time in moving families out of danger zones as he underscored that preemptive evacuation is no longer an option but an obligation of government and a responsibility of communities.
On Sept. 20, the DILG issued an urgent advisory yesterday directing LGUs to act on anticipatory measures, including evacuation, liquor bans, the no-sail policy, and preparation of evacuation centers.
With the threat now greater, the DILG emphasized that these directives must be carried out swiftly and without delay.
“LGUs were instructed to implement preemptive or mandatory evacuation in barangays highly susceptible to storm surges, flooding and landslides, to strictly enforce the no-sail policy to protect fisherfolk and travelers and to ensure that evacuation centers are powered, stocked, and safe for evacuees,’’ the DILG said.
The DILG also reminded the LGUs to provide food and humanitarian support to affected families, enforce liquor bans in high-risk areas and clear the waterways, monitor dams and quarry sites and secure critical infrastructure.
Remulla said that the classification of “Nando’’ as a super typhoon makes preemptive evacuation non-negotiable.
He noted that government action combined with citizen cooperation is the only way to save lives, calling “every family in vulnerable areas to heed evacuation orders and move to safety immediately.’’
Remulla assured that the DILG is working closely with Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (RDRRMCs) and local chief executives to ensure compliance and to guarantee that all barangays are prepared.
The DILG also reminded the public to stay updated with the weather bulletins and LGU advisories.
At this time, Remulla stressed “what is needed is not only preparedness but immediate action.’’