THE Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (PDRRMO) in Negros Occidental will be placed on "Blue Alert" status in observance of Holy Week.
In an order signed by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council and Operations Center will be placed on the said alert status by 8 a.m. on April 5, Wednesday, until April 10, Monday.
Lacson also advised the other city and municipal DRRMOs in the province to heighten their alert status and intensify road safety measures.
He also ordered them to deploy responders and resources to different areas where there are large numbers of people, such as churches and resorts.
Aside from the PDRRMO, other agencies such as the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO), Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Bacolod City Police Office have also been placed on heightened alert status.
Both the NOCPPO and the BCPO will deploy personnel to guard churches, terminals, and resorts, and they have also instructed the police chiefs to place help desks in their respective areas of operation.
The PCG, meanwhile, has strengthened their monitoring of the province's seaports and has issued warnings against colorum boats that will be eyeing to ferry travelers to neighboring islands or conduct unauthorized leisure cruises.
They have also checked the various resorts in the province to make sure that they have certified lifeguards.
In a related development, health authorities in the province also remind the public to always wear umbrellas when attending religious processions.
Those participating in "Taltal" are also reminded to check their blood pressure before the activity to make sure of their safety.
Dr. Mary Ann Maestral, Chief of Teresita Jalandoni Provincial Hospital, also reminded the public to always keep hydrated and stay away from outdoor activities and direct exposure to sunlight from 10 am to 3 pm where high temperatures are noted, especially during this dry season.*