As possible Super Typhoon Uwan approaches, provincial governments in Catanduanes and Isabela are ramping up disaster preparedness, balancing anticipatory measures with restrictions on preemptive aid.

Speaking at DZRH’s "Special on Saturday," Governor Patrick Azanza of Catanduanes confirmed that preemptive evacuations are underway in all coastal areas. Fishing and sea travel have been prohibited, and tens of thousands of DSWD food packs have been prepositioned across the province’s 11 towns.

He emphasized the use of technology to maintain communication, saying, “Meron kaming group chat… at naipamigay na namin yung 37 Starlink just to ensure uninterrupted communication sa panahon ng bagyong ito.”

Azanza also acknowledged the limitations imposed by national regulations on preemptive aid, stating: “Gusto po namin yan… bagamat may limitasyon dahil may mga kailangang sundin.”

To fill the gaps, local funds and private sector support are being mobilized to assist residents before and during the storm.

Meanwhile, in Isabela, Governor Rodolfo Albano III stressed the importance of river management and natural barriers.

“So since parang sabi nga ni Governor, ng Catanduanes, since sanay na sanay na kami sa bagyo, inaano namin na medyo cool na cool lang dapat ang approach. Basta susundin namin lahat ng protocols dito at proactive naman ang ginagawa namin dito sa lalawigan ng Isabela.,” he said, highlighting dredging and monitoring of the Cagayan River and its 43 tributaries.

Albano explained that maintaining a “cool” and composed attitude during pre-typhoon preparations is crucial to preventing unnecessary panic among residents.

“Lagi naman dapat ganun eh. Kasi para huwag kabahan at huwag magsulong ng panic kapag dumating ang sakunang ganito. Kasi kailangan kalmado ka rin. Kasi hindi mo naman alam kung ano yung darating sa'yo,” the governor said.

He also noted that the provincial government is ready to use its own resources if national assistance falls short.

“Kung magkulang… abonohan na lang namin yan… depende yun sa [gaano] karaming pera rin yung naka-ano sa probinsya,” Albano said, emphasizing that local funds can supplement government aid when necessary.

Both governors emphasized the importance of staying calm and vigilant as possible Super Typhoon Uwan approaches, urging residents to prepare responsibly without succumbing to panic.

“Huwag tayong pagkakampante dahil hindi natin mapredict yung twist and turns na maaaring mangyari. Dahil nature ito at ang ating gusto ay maging handa ang lahat,” said Governor Patrick Azanza, highlighting the unpredictability of typhoons and the need for anticipatory measures to ensure the safety of all residents.

Governor Rodolfo Albano echoed the message of preparedness, urging communities not only to follow evacuation and safety protocols but also to turn to prayer for protection.

“Paghandaan natin ulit. Ito darating na bagyo. At saka manalangin tayo na sana humina yung ating bagyo. Kasi ito, force of nature, hindi natin malalaman kung ano talaga yung tatama sa atin,” he said.

“Nakahanda kami para sa inyo,” Albano added, reassuring residents that local authorities are mobilized and ready to respond to any eventuality.

Despite existing policy limitations on preemptive aid, both governors made it clear that their priority remains the same: the safety of their constituents.

The overarching goal is zero casualties, with careful planning, coordination, and community cooperation guiding all preparedness efforts.