Catanduanes suspends gov't work, classes on Nov. 18
2024-Nov-18 08:00
'PEPITO' AFTERMATH. A destroyed house in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Pepito (Man-yi) in Barangay Puraran, Baras, Catanduanes on Sunday morning (Nov. 17, 2024). The provincial government has ordered the suspension of classes in all levels and work in all government offices on Monday because of widespread damage. (PNA/Allan Bataller Pamplona)
LEGAZPI CITY – The provincial government of Catanduanes, the worst-hit province by Super Typhoon Pepito (Wan-yi), ordered the suspension of classes in all levels and work in all government offices on Monday.
Under Memorandum No. 303's 2024 issued Sunday, Governor Joseph Cua said the suspension is due to the onslaught of Super Typhoon Pepito, which left severe damage to the 11 municipalities of the province.
"The suspension is essential to allow sufficient time for all employees and learners to recover from the effects of the super typhoon. It will also enable schools and communities to assist their respective students, staff, and their families," Cua said in his memo.
He added that municipalities that were severely affected by the super typhoon may consider an extension of the class suspension depending on their assessment.
Cua also instructed all local disaster risk reduction and management offices (DRRMO) to closely monitor the situation and maintain coordination in the provincial level for real-time updates.
The provincial capitol is also open for everyone who wants to charge their gadgets, flashlights and other devices.
In his Facebook post, the governor said the entire province of Catanduanes was heavily damaged, while the towns of Bagamanoc, Pandan, Gigmoto, Panganiban, Caramoran, and other parts of Baras were severely damaged.
"Marami pang not passable na lugar ngunit patuloy rin ang clearing operations sa buong lalawigan (there are still many non-passable areas, but clearing operations continue throughout the province)," he said.
Cua also asked for the help of electric cooperatives and telecommunication companies for power restoration team augmentation and provision of free calls and text booths.
"Kailangan ng mga materyales sa pagkumpuni ng mga bahay tulad ng G.I. sheets, food packs, malinis na tubig, hygiene kits at iba pa (Home repair materials are needed such as G.I. sheets, food packs, clean water, hygiene kits, and others)," he said.
As of the 5 p.m. bulletin, the Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal in Catanduanes has been lifted. Pepito also weakened into a typhoon as of 8 p.m. (PNA)