Negros Oriental suspends July 9 classes as typhoon threatens province
DUMAGUETE CITY – Negros Oriental Gov. Manuel Sagarbarria has suspended classes on all levels in both public and private schools on Thursday, July 9, as a preemptive measure against the expected impact of super typhoon Inday.
Sagarbarria issued Executive Order No. 48, Series of 2026, on Tuesday evening following the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) based on forecasts from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
The order cited PAGASA's weather bulletin, which forecast moderate to heavy, at times torrential, rains over Negros Oriental on Thursday as the typhoon moves closer to the country.
The governor said the suspension aims to protect learners, teachers, and school personnel from possible hazards brought by the severe weather.
The Philippine Coast Guard in Negros Oriental has heightened monitoring of coastal areas and ports in anticipation of deteriorating sea conditions.
Lt. Marionne Abigail Enopia, commander of Coast Guard Station Negros Oriental, said personnel have been deployed to ports to monitor weather conditions and ensure compliance with maritime safety regulations.
She said no sea trips had been canceled as of Wednesday, but warned that sailing restrictions could be imposed if conditions worsen.
"We are strict in implementing sea travel requirements. Even minor deficiencies, such as an incomplete motorboat crew, can result in the denial of a vessel's departure," Enopia said.
The Coast Guard has also intensified maritime patrols and coastal visits to advise fisherfolk not to venture into open waters during the typhoon's onslaught.
PDRRMO chief Adrian Sedillo, meanwhile, said disaster response teams remain on standby, closely monitoring areas vulnerable to flooding, landslides, and fallen trees as the province prepares for the storm's possible effects. (with PNA)