Marcos orders enhanced disaster preparedness after storm deaths

President Marcos ordered government agencies to enhance disaster preparedness and response nationwide following the fatalities caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.

He directed the Department of Science and Technology to strengthen its warning systems and ensure timely public warnings on approaching storms, including establishing a standard procedure for the gradual release of water from dams before typhoons.

The President also instructed the DOST and Department of the Interior and Local Government to ensure proper communication with local government units for disaster readiness, mentioning the DILG's Operation Listo program.

Marcos ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and other agencies to revise flood control master plans to expand infrastructure capacity for increasing flood risks.

He additionally ordered the National Irrigation Administration, Department of Energy, and Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System to implement the gradual release of water from dams to prevent flooding.

The President directed the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to review its disaster response strategies and ensure timely distribution of aid to affected communities.