Gov't ready for 'Crising'

3 million relief packs ready; safety protocols in place

- BETHEENA UNITE, AARON RECUENCO, and MERLINA HERNANDO-MALIPOT

President Marcos said the government is prepared to respond to the possible impact of Tropical Storm "Crising," especially in terms of providing relief packs to residents in the storm's path.

Around three million relief packs are ready for distribution to affected families, Marcos said during his visit at the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD)-National Resource Operations Center in Pasay City on Friday, July 18, where he inspected the packaging of food packs.

The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA), on the other hand, activated its emergency and safety protocols in all ports under its supervision as part of the preparations to cushion the adverse effects of Crising.

The PPA is also working with the DSWD to ensure efficient handling and distribution of relief goods. Critical equipment and emergency supplies—such as power generators, communication tools, first aid kits, and food and water—have been prepositioned.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGA-SA), in its 11 a.m. bulletin, on Friday, July 18, said Crising will move generally northwestward within the next 12 hours and may intensify until it reaches Severe Tropical Storm category Saturday morning or afternoon, July 19.

"On the forecast track, a landfall scenario over mainland Cagayan or the Babuyan Islands this afternoon or evening is possible," PAGASA said on Friday.