‘No storm next week’

MANILA, Philippines — No cyclone is expected to enter or form within the Philippine area of responsibility next week after six consecutive cyclones battered parts of the country recently, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration.

PAGASA said it has not monitored any tropical cyclone-like vortex until Nov. 26, which means that a potential cyclone threat is unlikely by next week.

However, there is a low to moderate chance that a cyclone may form by the first week of December.

Meanwhile, Super Typhoon Pepito’s reported casualties rose to nine yesterday with at least 16 people injured and four still missing, according to the Office of Civil Defense.

The combined damage of Pepito, Nika and Ofel to the agriculture sector in five regions has reached P265.74 million, according to the Department of Agriculture.

Agriculture Assistant Secretary and spokesman Arnel de Mesa said total rice imports as of Nov. 19 have surpassed the total rice imports of 3.6 million MT in 2023.

De Mesa noted the DA has requested the Department of Budget and Management to replenish the P1-billion Quick Response Fund.

Meanwhile, at least three Luzon dams continued to release water amid the rains brought by Pepito. – Michael Punongbayan, Bella Cariaso, Jasper Emmanuel Arcalas