Every year, the Philippines braces for powerful typhoons, and each one is a stark reminder of how crucial disaster preparedness is. With Typhoon Opong (international name: Bualoi) now intensifying and threatening several regions, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed national agencies and local government units (LGUs) to heighten readiness and ensure the safety of citizens.
This move comes as millions of Filipinos prepare for heavy rains, strong winds, and possible flooding across Luzon, Samar, and nearby provinces. The call to action: be proactive, not reactive.
Background: Why Typhoon Readiness Matters in the Philippines
The Philippines is among the most disaster-prone countries in the world, facing an average of 20 tropical cyclones annually. History has shown us — from Typhoon Yolanda in 2013 to Typhoon Ulysses in 2020 — that preparedness can mean the difference between life and death.
With Typhoon Opong packing winds of up to 130 km/h and bringing heavy to torrential rains, the urgency to act swiftly is more critical than ever.
Current Situation: Typhoon Opong Threatens Multiple Regions
As of 5:00 PM on September 24, 2025, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has raised three alert levels across affected provinces:
🔴 Alert Level Charlie (Red) – Directly Threatened Provinces
Provinces within 100 km of the typhoon’s track are expected to experience intense winds and torrential rain, leading to high risks of flooding, landslides, and damage to homes and infrastructure.
Areas included: Albay, Bataan, Batangas, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Cavite, Laguna, Marinduque, Masbate, Metro Manila, Northern Samar, Occidental Mindoro, Quezon, Rizal, Sorsogon.
🟠Alert Level Bravo (Orange) – Surrounding Provinces
Areas within 300 km of the typhoon’s path may face strong winds up to 85 km/h and heavy to intense rains.
Areas included: Aurora, Bulacan, Eastern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Oriental Mindoro, Pampanga, Romblon, Samar, Tarlac, Zambales.
🟡 Alert Level Alpha (Yellow) – Wider Impact Zone
Provinces within 700 km will experience moderate to heavy rains and winds up to 45 km/h, still posing risks of localized flooding and travel disruptions.
Areas included: Abra, Aklan, Antique, Benguet, Biliran, Bohol, Capiz, Cebu, Dinagat Islands, Guimaras, Ifugao, Ilocos Sur, Iloilo, Isabela, Kalinga, La Union, Leyte, Mountain Province, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Nueva Vizcaya, Palawan, Pangasinan, Quirino, Southern Leyte, Surigao del Norte, Surigao del Sur.
Government Response: Operation L!STO in Action
President Marcos has instructed LGUs to activate Operation L!STO protocols — a nationwide disaster-readiness program that focuses on preemptive evacuations, securing evacuation centers, and ensuring sufficient food, water, and medical supplies.
Local Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Committees (BDRRMCs) are also tasked to intensify ground monitoring and coordinate closely with police, fire, and rescue units.
The DILG Central Office Disaster Information Coordinating Center (CODIX) continues to provide real-time updates and advisories.
What Citizens Should Do Now
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Stay Updated: Follow PAGASA, DILG, and local government advisories.
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Prepare Essentials: Pack go-bags with food, water, medicines, flashlights, and important documents.
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Secure Homes: Tie down roofs, clear drainage, and unplug appliances before evacuating.
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Cooperate with Authorities: If told to evacuate, do so immediately.
Remember: Ang kahandaan ang magliligtas ng buhay.
Conclusion
Typhoon Opong reminds us once again that disaster preparedness is not optional — it’s necessary. With President Marcos ordering LGUs to step up readiness, and communities urged to follow safety protocols, the collective effort of government and citizens will be key in minimizing risks and saving lives.
Stay vigilant, be proactive, and most importantly: stay safe.
FAQs About Typhoon Opong
1. How strong is Typhoon Opong?
It packs maximum sustained winds of 130 km/h as of Sept. 24, 2025.
2. Which areas are most affected?
Metro Manila, Bicol, Calabarzon, Samar, Mindoro, and nearby provinces.
3. What is Operation L!STO?
It is the government’s disaster preparedness protocol for LGUs, focusing on evacuation and community safety.
4. Where can I find official typhoon guides?
You can access manuals here: