THE number of fatalities from Tropical Storm Ramon, which weakened into tropical depression, climbed to nine, the national disaster council said Friday.
In its 6 a.m. Friday report, the National Disaster and Risk Reduction Management Council (NDRRMC) recorded two deaths in Mimaropa region, four in Western Visayas, two in Central Visayas, and one in Caraga.
The fatalities were identified as:
* Francis Rodeo -- Cajidiocan, Romblon
* Julia Patnogon Doro -- San Agustin, Romblon
* Michael Martinez -- Barotac Viejo, Iloilo
* Mark Martinez -- Barotac Viejo, Iloilo
* Marielle Martinez -- Barotac Viejo, Iloilo
* Lino Ganancial -- Barotac Viejo, Iloilo
* Bienvenido Cañete -- Cordova, Cebu
* Wilfredo Sabroso -- Toledo City, Cebu
* Daryll Galles -- Sta. Cruz, Barangay De Manila, Butuan
The NDRRMC also said two persons remain missing and five were injured due to "Ramon".
The Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said "Ramon" was spotted at 300 kilometers west northwest of Iba, Zambales as of 4 a.m. Friday.
"Ramon" packed winds of 55 kilometers per hour (kph) near the center and is forecast to move northwest at 19 kph.
Pagasa said "Ramon" is expected to exit Philippine Area of Responsibility today, Friday. (Sunnex)