The road leading to the PAGASA Doppler radar tower has been cordoned off. Engineers have assessed it is no longer safe and advised against using it. Offices near it are also not being used for safety purposes. Raphael Bosano, ABS-CBN News

President Ferdinand Marcos on Friday directed the Department of Public Works and Highways to look into the damage sustained by the PAGASA weather station in Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur following the massive earthquake in the province last December.

Surigao del Sur Rep. Johnny Pimentel brought the matter to the President’s attention during a situation briefing in Agusan del Sur. Pimentel said that due to the damage to the structure that houses PAGASA’s doppler radar, the weather agency is now unable to use the equipment which is critical in monitoring weather disturbances in the country.

“Have a look at it kasi very important ‘yan for the forecasting. Para at least may warnings tayo when these things happen. Mayroon tayong warning na may parating na heavy rains, low pressure area,” Marcos told DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, who was present during the briefing.

Bonoan said the DPWH would structurally assess the PAGASA building.

Two PAGASA weather radars damaged by earthquakes

During the same meeting, Surigao del Sur Governor Alexander Pimentel also noted that several roads and bridges have yet to be reconstructed, making it hard for authorities to access far-flung barangays. A number of school buildings are also in dire need of repair, he said.

“Malalakas po ang aftershock, 5.2 4.8… 10,000 na nga po eh, nasisira na ang ulo namin eh, ang aftershocks," the governor told the President.

"Yung immediate po sa highway di ba nirerepair nyo na pero dapat mabigyan nyan ng funding, at saka yung eskwelahan po talaga kasi palaki nang palaki yung mga crack, so hindi ko mapapasukan ng estudyante baka bumagsak,” he added. 

Fear, trauma grip Hinatuan residents as aftershocks persist

Marcos said the DPWH would prioritize the reconstruction of thoroughfares damaged by the earthquake and recent floods in the region that are still not passable so that government could extend aid to isolated barangays.

The Philippine leader was in Agusan del Sur to preside over a situation briefing after a low pressure area spawned massive floods. 

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