PCG: The Philippine Coast Guard has alerted its districts and stations in Vizayas, Northern Mindanao and Palawan to brace for the possible effects in maritime activities of the tropical depression expected to enter the Philippine area of responsibility tonight.

PCG Commandant Rear Admiral Elson E Hermogino directed all PCG district commanders in areas expected to be hit by the weather disturbance to ensure the readiness of all assets and personnel to respond during emergency situations and to coordinate with their respective Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council for possible rescue and related activities.

The PCG head also directed PCG units to remind and prevent inter-island vessels from sailing in the areas where public storm signal will be possibly hoisted by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. This includes passenger, cargo and fishing vessels which under PCG regulations shall not be allowed to sail in areas where the PSWS is declared by PAGASA. The riding public is advised to check with their shipping companies for the possible cancellation of their trips especially those travelling to Visayas, Mindanao and Palawan.

The PCG under the instructions of Secretary Arthur Tugade of DOTr is coordinating with Philippine Ports Authority in order to prepare   the necessary facilities and provisions in case the passengers will be stranded in ports because of the typhoon.