MANILA -- Nueva Ecija is bearing the brunt of typhoon Pepito, as it moved closer to Aurora on Sunday. 

With Aurora neighboring Nueva Ecija, strong winds and heavy rainfall have gradually intensified in the area. 

The province, under Signal No. 4, was pounded by relentless rain and strong winds. However, many residents have chosen not to evacuate despite some areas in local barangays being prone to flooding. 

Filipinos seek refuge as 'Pepito' barrels through Philippines  

One such resident, Ine Cersenia from Barangay Sto. Niño First, said she prefers to wait for the typhoon's impact before heading to the evacuation center. 

"Kasi po yung mga bata po mahirap pong magbuhat ng mga gamit dadalhin sa eskwelahan. Pag ganyan lang po lumaki ang tubig tsaka lang kami nag-eevacuate," she said. 

Meanwhile, the provincial government has reported that over 100 families have been evacuated from various towns. Preemptive evacuations were also done in low-lying areas such as Gabaldon, South Poblacion, and Peñaranda. 

Businesses in the area have shut down early as a precaution. Meanwhile, local farmers said their crops remain unaffected, as the recent harvest concluded in October and the next planting season is still weeks away. 

Super Typhoon Pepito's aftermath in Panganiban, Catanduanes  

"Sa'min po ay wala pa masyado kasi namumunla pa lang po kami... Wala pong masisira sa mga pananim namin,” said farmer Richard Corcotia. 

The provincial government has issued a flood watch advisory for barangays in Districts 1, 3, and 4 that are at risk of flooding.