Forced evacuation in Batanes as Super Typhoon Leon approaches

Metro Manila, Philippines - Batanes is on high alert as Super Typhoon Leon (international name: Kong-Rey) approaches, bringing destructive winds in the northernmost Philippine province.

"Sa ngayon po napakalakas po ng hangin dito sa Batanes. Hindi malakas ang ulan compared doon sa Typhoon Julian (international name: Krathon)," Governor Marilou Cayco told NewsWatch Now, referring to the storm that hit the province in late September.

(Translation: Batanes is encountering strong wind. However, the rain is not as torrential as Typhoon Julian.)

The weather bureau said the wind strength of “Leon” poses a severe threat as it nears Batanes from late Wednesday, Oct. 30, to Thursday morning. Its sustained winds are 185 kilometers per hour (kph) and gusts of up to 230 kph.

The provincial government has ordered a large-scale preemptive evacuation.

“Mayroon kaming forced evacuation sa lahat ng munisipyo lalo na sa malapit sa baybayin,” Cayco stated.

(Translation: We imposed forced evacuation in all municipalities, especially in coastal communities.)

As of Wednesday morning, 100 families or 357 people are in evacuation centers, while 239 families or 590 people are staying with relatives or neighbors.

The powerful winds have downed power and communication.

"Ang gamit po namin ngayon ay yung Starlink kasi yung Smart po ay nasira nung Typhoon Julian," Cayco said adding that Globe’s satellite service remains partially operational.

(Translation: We rely on Starlink for communication as Smart’s network was damaged during Typhoon Julian.)

Power is out in all six municipalities, including the provincial capital Basco.

Provincial officials have requested additional food and water to meet post-typhoon needs.

Cayco said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is sending 5,500 family food packs once the weather improves.

She said she has sought military assistance.

“Nag-request po ako sa Department of National Defense kay Sec. Teodoro ng C-130 para makapagdala sila dito ng family food packs,” she said, citing logistical challenges.

(Translation: I requested assistance from the Department of National Defense, specifically from Sec.Teodoro, for a C-130 to bring family food packs here.)

The bureau’s update said “Leon” is moving north westward across the Philippine Sea and could land in Taiwan Thursday afternoon, but a direct landfall on Batanes is still possible.