On orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is urging concerned local government units (LGUs) to complete preemptive or mandatory evacuations of high-risk communities by Sunday, November 9, as Tropical Storm Fung-Wong continues to intensify while moving closer to the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR).

The directive comes following a situation briefing led by the President earlier today, where national and local agencies were instructed to heighten preparations and ensure the safety of residents in areas expected to be affected by the approaching storm.

According to PAGASA’s 11:00 am advisory, Fung-Wong was last spotted 1,690 km east of northeastern Mindanao with maximum sustained winds of 75 km/h and gusts of up to 90 km/h.

The storm is moving northwest at 10 km/h and is expected to enter PAR by late Friday or early Saturday, when it will be given the local name Uwan.

It may strengthen into a typhoon by Friday and possibly a super typhoon by Saturday, with an increased likelihood of landfall over Northern or Central Luzon by Monday, November 10.

The DILG said LGUs should not wait for conditions to worsen before acting.

“We are calling on all local chief executives to complete the evacuation of residents in high-risk areas no later than Sunday. Early evacuation saves lives,” the DILG stressed, saying LGUs should plan out worst-case or likely scenarios.

The DILG also reminded LGUs to prepare evacuation centers with sufficient supplies and power sources, and to ensure proper management of evacuees. Continuous coordination with Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (RDRRMCs) and real-time public information campaigns are essential, particularly in communities vulnerable to flooding, landslides, and storm surges.

PAGASA warns that weather conditions will begin to deteriorate over eastern Luzon by Sunday, with potentially life-threatening conditions expected in Northern and Central Luzon by Monday and Tuesday. Coastal flooding and storm surges are likely, and gale warnings may be issued as early as Saturday.

The DILG likewise ordered the enforcement of a no-sailing policy and the suspension of tourism and outdoor activities in at-risk areas. LGUs are also instructed to mobilize equipment and personnel for road clearing and ensure unimpeded access for emergency and relief operations.

“We cannot be complacent. The next 48 hours are crucial for preparedness. We urge everyone to stay informed, follow local advisories, and cooperate with authorities,” the DILG said.