To safeguard communities amid the threat of Typhoon Marce, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Wednesday advised concerned local government units (LGUs) to strictly implement forced evacuation in high-risk areas due to the anticipated downpour and strong winds.

In a memorandum, the DILG advised LGUs to strictly execute forced evacuation following the Operation L!STO protocols in high risk areas for flooding, landslides, and other related hazards, particularly in Northern Luzon as advised by the PAGASA.

LGUs are reminded of the mandate of Section 11 of Republic Act (RA) No. 10121 and Section 16 of RA No. 7160, which authorizes local chief executives (LCEs) to implement forced evacuation when necessary. They are urged and reminded to prioritize the safety of vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities.

The DILG also advised all affected residents to promptly relocate to designated evacuation centers or safe areas.

DILG likewise directed its attached agencies, the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), to fully support the LCEs in the implementation of forced evacuation efforts.

LGUs are also encouraged to identify and prepare evacuation centers that are structurally sound and equipped with basic facilities such as sanitation, medical aid, and designated areas for high-risk groups.

The DILG underscored that the facilities should be regularly inspected to ensure their safety and for capacity adjustments to be made as needed.

LGUs must likewise coordinate with the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council and the Department of Social Welfare and Development for the distribution of relief goods and other supplies as house-to-house relief distributions may not be sustainable in the coming days.

Furthermore, DILG warned that the expected intense rainfall from Marce may also elevate water levels in major dams, potentially requiring water discharge operations that could affect downstream communities.

According to the latest report issued by PAGASA, Typhoon Marce is expected to continue intensifying and may reach its peak intensity on Wednesday before its passage over the Babuyan Channel.

Original Article At: https://www.dilg.gov.ph/news/DILG-to-LGUs-Implement-forced-evacuation-amid-Typhoon-Marce/NC-2024-1137