Legazpi disaster officials prepare early for 'Tisoy'

LEGAZPI CITY – Disaster officials in Albay are now in full alert, preparing early for the possible effects of Typhoon Tisoy, which is expected to hit the Bicol Region in the coming days.

In an emergency meeting with officials of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and barangays on Saturday morning, Legazpi City Mayor Noel Rosal said he would order preemptive evacuation on Monday at 3 p.m. in coastal areas and those prone to floods, lahar and landslides.

Weather bureau PAGASA said strong winds and moderate to heavy rains are most likely to be felt in the city beginning Tuesday morning. The typhoon will be called Tisoy once it enters the Philippine area of responsibility.

Based on the typhoon's track, PAGASA said it may make landfall in the Bicol region between Monday and Tuesday.

Since Friday, most residents of Legazpi have already prepared their belongings for possible evacuation.

In Camalig, Albay, some residents harvested their crops early.

‘TYPHOON REMING’

Meanwhile, residents in Barangay Padang, Legazpi City gathered on Saturday morning to commemorate the 13th anniversary of Typhoon Reming, which left more than 300 people dead and over 200 others missing in 2006.

A mass was offered while residents lit candles and released balloons for victims of the typhoon.

They also prayed for safety amid the possible effects of the approaching typhoon.

Meanwhile, the Land Transportation Office in Bicol has already suspended bus trips going to ports starting Saturday morning to prevent passengers from being stranded due to the storm.