Forced evacuation has been ordered for residents of Rapu-Rapu Island in Albay due to Typhoon Pepito.
Vice Mayor Rommel Galicia confirmed in an interview with Bombo Radyo Legazpi that residents, especially those living near the coast, are being evacuated.
Galicia reported that around 500 families have already evacuated, while others have sought shelter in private homes.
Authorities continue distributing relief goods to affected residents.
The local government has requested assistance from the Philippine Coast Guard and Philippine National Police to advise residents against returning to their homes.
The vice mayor urged residents to follow advisories from the State Weather Bureau and local authorities for further safety measures.
According to the latest data from PAGASA as of 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 16, Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal Number 3 has been raised over Rapu-Rapu Island.