DILG orders LGUs to evacuate high-risk communities ahead of potential super typhoon Uwan

The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Friday ordered the preemptive or mandatory evacuation of residents in high-risk areas expected to be affected by potential super typhoon Fung-Wong, which will be locally named Uwan.

According to the DILG, local government units (LGUs) should complete the evacuation of residents in vulnerable areas no later than Sunday, November 9, to ensure the safety of communities before the typhoon’s expected landfall.

“We are calling on all local chief executives to complete the evacuation of residents in high-risk areas no later than Sunday. Early evacuation saves lives,” the DILG said in a statement.

The department emphasized that LGUs should not wait for weather conditions to deteriorate before taking action.

It also reminded local officials to prepare evacuation centers with adequate supplies, power sources, and proper management systems for evacuees. Continuous coordination with Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (RDRRMCs) and timely public information campaigns were also urged, especially in flood-, landslide-, and storm surge-prone communities.

As of Friday morning, Typhoon Fung-Wong remains outside the PAR but continues to intensify. The weather system is expected to enter the country late Friday night or early Saturday morning, November 8. The bureau warned that the storm could strengthen into a super typhoon before making landfall in Northern or Central Luzon.

In anticipation of severe weather, the DILG has also directed the strict implementation of a no-sailing policy and the suspension of tourism and outdoor activities in at-risk coastal and mountainous areas. LGUs have been instructed to mobilize heavy equipment and personnel for road clearing operations and to ensure unimpeded access for emergency and relief teams.

“We cannot be complacent. The next 48 hours are crucial for preparedness. We urge everyone to stay informed, follow local advisories, and cooperate with authorities,” the DILG stressed.

A state of national calamity was declared yesterday following the destruction brought by Typhoon Tino earlier this week, and ahead of Uwan’s expected landfall.