By Kenneth Marcos 
As night fell across coastal villages in eastern Mindanao, many families rushed to secure roofs, fishing boats, and farm tools as rain clouds thickened and winds began to pick up. For communities used to facing storms but never fully spared from their impact, Tropical Storm Basyang once again brought worry and urgent preparation.
The Climate Change Commission (CCC) has warned the public to stay alert against heavy rain, strong winds, and possible flooding as Tropical Storm Basyang continues to move closer to land. The advisory follows the 5:00 p.m. weather bulletin released by DOST-PAGASA, which tracked the storm about 150 kilometers east of Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur.
Based on the latest data, Basyang is packing maximum sustained winds of up to 75 kilometers per hour and is moving west-northwest at around 25 kilometers per hour. Weather forecasters said the storm is expected to continue this direction in the next 12 hours and may turn more westward as it approaches land.
PAGASA’s forecast track shows that the center of Tropical Storm Basyang is likely to make landfall over parts of Surigao del Sur either late Friday night or early Saturday morning. After crossing eastern Mindanao, the storm may exit into the Bohol Sea by Saturday morning. It is then expected to make another landfall over Siquijor and the southern portion of Negros Oriental by Saturday afternoon or evening.
Forecasters warned that Basyang could still intensify before its first landfall. However, it may weaken as it passes over land due to reduced moisture and increased surface friction. PAGASA noted that the storm could eventually weaken into a low-pressure area by Sunday, February 8.
Despite the possibility of weakening, authorities stressed that the storm remains dangerous. Moderate to heavy rains, and at times intense rainfall, are expected along its path. These conditions raise the risk of flash floods, river overflow, and landslides, especially in low-lying areas and mountainous communities with loose or saturated soil.
The Climate Change Commission urged residents in affected provinces to take early precautions. Families living near rivers, slopes, and coastal zones were advised to prepare for possible evacuation if rainfall intensifies. Fisherfolk were also warned against going out to sea due to rough waters and strong winds that could threaten small boats.
For farmers, the storm poses a serious threat to crops and livestock. Prolonged rain can flood rice fields and vegetable farms, while strong winds may damage fruit trees and newly planted crops. Local government units and agriculture offices were encouraged to assist farmers in securing harvest-ready produce, farm equipment, and animals.
Disaster response agencies are now on heightened alert. Local officials were reminded to activate barangay disaster teams, check evacuation centers, and ensure that emergency supplies such as food packs and medicines are ready if needed.
The CCC emphasized the importance of relying only on official and verified sources for weather updates and safety instructions. The public was advised to closely monitor announcements from PAGASA, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and other government hazard-monitoring platforms.
Authorities also reminded the public that emergency hotlines remain available for immediate assistance, including the national emergency hotline 911 and the Philippine Red Cross emergency number 143.
As Tropical Storm Basyang continues its path, officials stressed that preparedness and cooperation can reduce damage and save lives. Staying informed, following local advisories, and helping vulnerable neighbors remain key as the country once again faces the challenges of severe weather.
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