Metro LGUs alerted for Kristine

MANILA, Philippines — Malabon was placed on full alert yesterday by the city government for the impact of Tropical Storm Kristine.

Acting city administrator Bianca Espiritu said the city’s command and communications center is operational around the clock to provide updates about the storm.

The local government also deployed vehicles offering free rides to stranded passengers.

Around 700 food packs are ready for distribution to families that will take shelter in the city’s evacuation centers.

In Navotas, the local government said all the city’s pumping stations are operational to mitigate flooding.

In Valenzuela City, “libreng sakay” trucks were pre-positioned in flood-prone areas to assist commuters. Pumping stations and flood gates are also operational.

The Quezon City police went on heightened alert yesterday due to Tropical Storm Kristine.

Col. Melecio Buslig Jr., director of the Quezon City Police District, said the alert status is part of the city’s response to the possible effects of Kristine.

Buslig said the QCPD is coordinating with the city government.

In Marikina, Mayor Marcelino Teodoro said classes in public and private schools are suspended today after tropical cyclone wind signal No. 3 was raised in Metro Manila yesterday.

The local government readied evacuation centers and mobilized its rescue assets, Teodoro said.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) deployed its assets and rescue personnel to assist those affected by Kristine.

MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said the agency would coordinate with the Office of Civil Defense and Department of Social Welfare and Development to determine where to deploy assets, including boats, water purifiers, chainsaws, dump trucks and ambulances.

The Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) yesterday appealed to fur parents and city pounds not to leave their animals behind during typhoons.

“We urge city pound officials to ensure the welfare of impounded animals,” PAWS said.

Animals should not be left in cages during flooding, the group said. — Evelyn Macairan