Marcos orders gradual dam releases for Tropical Storm Kristine

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered concerned agencies to closely monitor water dams and gradually release water in anticipation of Tropical Storm Kristine's impact on Luzon.

On Wednesday morning, one gate each was opened at Magat Dam and Binga Dam as Tropical Storm Kristine continued to bring rains across the country; President Marcos also directed government agencies to enforce a 'measured response' in releasing water due to anticipated heavier rainfall.

As of 8 a.m., state weather bureau PAGASA reported that Magat Dam’s reservoir water level (RWL) decreased slightly from Tuesday's levels while Binga Dam saw a minor decrease in RWL, and San Roque Dam is set to open one gate at 3 p.m. on Wednesday.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2 remains raised in 26 areas as Kristine maintains its strength, approaching the Isabela and northern Aurora area with forecasts predicting slight weakening over Northern Luzon followed by re-intensification over the West Philippine Sea; one fatality, five injured, and seven missing have been reported due to inclement weather caused by Kristine.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development assured ample supply of relief goods, saying that over two million family food packs are spread in its regional hubs across the country, with DSWD 1 (Ilocos region) ready to assist evacuees affected by the opening of Magat and San Roque dams.