The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) clarified its actions after Senator Imee Marcos criticized the agency for what she described as a lack of timely warnings regarding Typhoon Kristine, which reportedly led to 150 casualties.
PAGASA Deputy Administrator for Research and Development, Marcelino Villafuerte II, responded by saying they accept the senator’s comments as constructive criticism and are working to improve services and provide clearer information to the public.
Villafuerte also explained that PAGASA had informed the public of a potential typhoon two weeks before it entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility.
Additionally, PAGASA issues weather advisories that include expected rainfall that may cause flooding or landslides in vulnerable areas.
On Sunday, Sen. Marcos commented that if PAGASA had better warned local governments about the storm’s intensity, evacuations could have been conducted earlier, potentially saving lives.
In addition to the casualties, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported Monday that 143 people were injured, with 20 still missing.