CATBALOGAN CITY – As Super Typhoon Pepito (international name: Man-yi) barrels through the Philippines, Catbalogan City has reported the evacuation of 761 families, totaling 2,869 individuals, to 19 designated shelters as of midnight, November 17, 2024.
Mayor Dexter Uy emphasized the importance of the swift evacuation in minimizing risks for residents.
“Our priority is to ensure the safety of every Catbaloganon. We have mobilized all resources and continue to monitor the situation closely. Let’s stay vigilant and help each other through these challenging times,” Uy earlier stated.
According to the Catbalogan City Social Welfare and Development (CCSWDO), Barangay Maulong holds the largest number of evacuees, with 152 families (611 individuals) sheltering at Catbalogan V Central Elementary School and Maulong Church. Other heavily impacted areas include Barangays Mercedes, hosting 68 families, and Silanga, with 104 families evacuated.
Local authorities activated evacuation sites, including schools, barangay halls, and churches, as a preemptive measure against potential destruction from Pepito’s powerful winds and heavy rains.
The typhoon, classified as a super typhoon, has brought torrential rainfall and significant storm surges, with PAGASA forecasting continued intense weather conditions.
Typhoon Pepito, known internationally as Man-yi, is the 13th tropical cyclone to enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility this year. It carries maximum sustained winds of 185 km/h and gusts reaching 230 km/h, posing a significant threat to Samar and nearby regions.
The CCSWDO and the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO) and other agencies continue to provide essential assistance to affected families, monitoring the situation to respond promptly to emergencies.
Residents are reminded to stay alert and reach out for support through these hotlines:
CDRRMO: 0935 713 5886
CSWDO: 0917 831 9458
City Health Office: 0956 258 1508
PNP: 0905 310 7114
BFP: 0995 532 2202
“Our collective efforts and resilience will help us weather this storm,” Mayor Uy added, urging everyone to prioritize safety and heed local advisories.
(By Ricky J. Bautista; Pubmat courtesy of Catbalogan City)
