Satellite Image for 8 p.m., 02 Oct. 2009

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ordered today local government units (LGUs) in the provinces that will be directly affected by typhoon ‘Pepeng’ to implement forced evacuation in vulnerable areas to prevent further loss of lives and identify temporary shelters for evacuees.

The President issued the order to local government executives of Camarines Norte, Aurora, Northern Quezon, Pollilio Island, Isabela and Cagayan.

At the same time, the President ensured that disaster relief response teams fielded in vulnerable areas are equipped with rubber boats, portable generators, M35 trucks, and life-saving kits.

In between the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) meeting in Cainta this morning, the President stressed to governors of provinces in the path of typhoon Pepeng the importance of preemptive and, if needed, forced evacuation.

The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said typhoon ‘Pepeng’ is expected to make landfall in Aurora and Isabela by Saturday morning.

As of 11 am today, Catanduanes, Camarines Norte, Northern Quezon, Aurora, Pollilio Island and Isabela are now under public storm warning signal #2.

The weather bureau said “Pepeng” could develop into a supertyphoon within the next 24 hours. (PND)