ANGELES CITY – In anticipation of Typhoon Uwan, Mayor Carmelo “Jon” Lazatin II led a Pre-Disaster Preparedness Meeting with all Punong Barangays, the Angeles City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (ACDRRMO), and members of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) to ensure the safety of residents. The meeting focused on proactive measures to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and potential flooding.
During the briefing, ACDRRMO presented a Hazard Risk Map identifying 14 barangays along the Abacan River as high-risk areas. These include Amsic, Anunas, Balibago, Capaya, Malabanias, Margot, Ninoy Aquino, Pampang, Pandan, Pulung Maragul, Santa Teresita, Sapalibutad, Sapangbato, and Tabun, highlighting the communities that may require preemptive evacuation.
Mayor Lazatin emphasized the importance of pre-emptive action, assuring residents that the City Command Center remains open 24/7. “Safety first. The LGU is ready to provide assistance and coordinate evacuations if necessary,” he said, underlining the city’s commitment to safeguarding Angeleños in high-risk areas.
Punong Barangays confirmed that evacuation centers are prepared in each barangay, with the LGU providing modular tents to support temporary shelter needs. Specific logistical concerns, such as Sapangbato’s previous need for backhoe equipment, were also discussed to ensure readiness for rapid deployment of resources.
The ACDRRMO highlighted that pre-emptive or forced evacuation may be implemented for residents in high-risk zones, particularly as river levels rise. They also advised vigilance along secondary tributaries, including Sapang Balen and Balibago creeks, recommending early evacuation in these areas if conditions worsen.
To further reduce flood risks, Mayor Lazatin is coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to implement a desilting program and improve drainage systems. He also stressed coordination with Congressman Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. to target interventions for vulnerable areas and ensure timely support for affected residents.
The LGU confirmed that high-risk areas may begin pre-emptive or forced evacuation starting Friday, November 7, 2025. Support for evacuees, including food, non-food items, and modular shelters, will be provided. Mayor Lazatin reiterated that the city is fully prepared to respond efficiently and urged all residents to stay updated via the Angeles City Information Office for advisories and instructions.
Source: Angeles City Information Office