Manila: Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. ordered regional directors on Sunday to enhance preparations for Severe Tropical Storm Nika (international name: Toraji). According to a news release, Teodoro, who also heads the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), met with key government officials at Camp Aguinaldo to coordinate disaster response measures.

According to Philippines News Agency, during the meeting, Teodoro instructed regional directors to enact emergency preparedness actions in line with the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) forecasts.

Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV urged regional directors to activate local interagency coordination cells (IACC) to ensure rapid communication with local authorities. Office of Civil Defense Director Agnes Palacio, meanwhile, said affected regions in Nika’s projected path should have availabl
e data and resources for swift preparedness planning.

Palacio also advised communities in high-risk areas to increase public awareness efforts, directing local authorities to convert critical information into actionable plans. Among the precautionary measures, officials mandated the suspension of all marine activities in affected regions.

The NDRRMC also urged the public to remain vigilant and follow safety guidance from the OCD, PAGASA, and local disaster councils.