Department of National Defense Sec. Gilberto Teodoro Jr. called a meeting on Sunday, Nov. 3, with officials and representatives from various government agencies to prepare for the expected onslaught of Tropical Cyclone Marce.
Key officials from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), including Civil Defense Administrator Usec. Ariel Nepomuceno, Asec. Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, and Asec. Jekereen Joy Casipit, attended the meeting.
OCD said that the meeting seeks to ensure that the national government provides adequate support for regional and local preparedness and response operations.
Teodoro assured that officials of DND, OCD, and other member agencies of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) closely monitors the situations.
"They are implementing all necessary preparations to mitigate risks and ensure community safety in anticipation of the weather disturbance," OCD said in a statement.
On Sunday, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration reported that a low pressure area outside of the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) developed into a tropical depression.
Tropical Cyclone Marce entered PAR on Monday, Nov. 4, and intensified into a tropical storm.
"The NDRRMC urges all citizens to stay informed and heed official advisories as the situation develops. The council remains committed to safeguarding lives and properties across the nation," the OCD stressed.
