Catholic Churches in Bicol Serve as Evacuation Centers Ahead of Severe Tropical Storm Opong

As Severe Tropical Storm Opong approaches the Bicol Region, select Catholic churches have made their facilities available to evacuees seeking safe shelter. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reported at 5 p.m. that tropical cyclone wind signals are currently in effect across parts of the region.

The churches offering temporary refuge include Nuestra Señora de la Porteria Church in Daraga, Albay; Holy Family Parish in Tabaco, Albay; Nuestra Señora Del Santisimo Rosario Parish in Casiguran, Sorsogon; St. Padre Pio Parish in Legazpi City, Albay; Saint Anthony of Padua Parish in Presentacion, Camarines Sur; and St. Roch Parish in Taysan, Legazpi, Albay.

According to PAGASA, Opong is projected to make its first landfall on Friday in either Northern Samar or the northern area of Eastern Samar, followed by a subsequent landfall in the Bicol Region. Local authorities continue to coordinate with community centers and places of worship to ensure the safety of residents vulnerable to the storm.