The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) has raised storm signals over 44 areas in Visayas and Mindanao because of Typhoon Pablo (Bopha).
Sun.Star Online reports Storm Warning Signal Number 3 was raised over Surigao del Norte, Siargao, Surigao del Sur, Dinagat, Agusan del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, Bukidnon, Davao Oriental, Compostela Valley, North Cotabato, Lanao del Sur, Lanao del Norte, Davao del Norte, and Samal Island. These areas will experience winds of 101-185 kilometers per hour, the report said.
Signal Number 2 has meanwhile been raised over Southern Leyte, Bohol, Cebu, Camotes Island, Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, Siquijor, Misamis Occidental, Davao del Sur, Zamboanga del Norte, Zamboanga del Sur, Sultan Kudarat, and Maguindanao. Wind in these areas is expected to be at 60 kph to 100 kph.
On Monday, President Benigno Aquino III told residents of the affected areas to take warnings from local governments seriously. "Hindi po biro ang potensyal na pinsalang dulot nitong bagyong si 'Pablo'. Tinataya po na siya ang pinakamalakas na bagyong papasok sa ating bansa ngayong 2012," he said.
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