TROPICAL Depression Samuel made landfall over Borongan City, Eastern Samar Wednesday dawn, November 21.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) lifted the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal (TCWS) Number 1 in Mindanao areas.

But Masbate including Ticao Island, Romblon, southern Oriental Mindoro, southern Occidental Mindoro, Palawan including Cuyo Island and Calamian Group of Islands, Northern Samar, Eastern Samar, Samar, Biliran, Leyte, Southern Leyte, Bohol, Cebu, Siquijor, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Guimaras, Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan, and Antique are still under TCWS Number 1.

Pagasa said that as of 1 a.m. Wednesday, the center of Samuel was located 30 kilometers east of Borongan City, Eastern Samar, with maximum winds of up to 55 kilometers per hour (km/h) near the center and gusts of up to 65 km/h.

The tropical depression was moving northwest at 20 km/h.

Pagasa said moderate to heavy rains, which may trigger flooding and landslides, is still expected over Western Visayas, Bicol Region, Mimaropa, and the provinces of Cebu, Negros Oriental and southern Quezon.

"Residents of these areas, especially those living near or in river channels, low-lying and mountainous areas, are advised to take appropriate measures, coordinate with local disaster risk reduction and management offices, and continue monitoring for updates," said Pagasa.

Fisherfolk and those with small seacraft were also warned against venturing out over the areas under TCWS Number 1, as well as the northern and eastern seaboards of Luzon.

Pagasa said Samuel will be located at 180 kilometers northeast of Puerto Princesa City, Palawan by Wednesday night. (LMY/SunStar Philippines)