By Kenneth Marcos 
Heavy rains and strong winds pounded Cebu on Wednesday as Typhoon Tino brought intense weather across the Visayas, placing parts of the province under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal Nos. 3 and 4.
In response, the National Food Authority (NFA) Cebu Branch has activated its Operations Center (OPCEN) to closely monitor the situation and coordinate emergency rice assistance for ongoing relief operations. Despite the worsening weather, the NFA assured the public that its Cebu office remains open and ready to provide rice support to local government units and disaster response teams.
According to NFA Cebu officials, their priority is to ensure the availability of quality rice stocks for communities affected by floods, landslides, and power interruptions caused by the storm. The agency said it has prepositioned rice supplies in key warehouses across the province to guarantee fast delivery once local government units request assistance.
“Our team is on full alert to respond to any calls for rice support from LGUs and partner agencies,” said an NFA Cebu representative. “We are closely monitoring the situation and will continue operations as long as safety conditions allow.”
Typhoon Tino, packing strong winds and heavy rains, has caused flooding in several low-lying areas and disrupted transport and power lines in parts of Central Visayas. Residents in coastal and mountainous communities have been urged by local disaster councils to remain alert and follow evacuation orders when necessary.
The NFA Operations Center works around the clock to ensure coordination with national and regional offices, particularly in the distribution of rice assistance through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).
Authorities reminded the public to stay updated through official government advisories and avoid spreading unverified information online. Emergency hotlines and LGU communication lines remain active to respond to urgent needs.
Through its slogan, “Sa Serbisyong Pantas at Tapat, Bigas ay Laging Dekalidad,” the NFA reaffirmed its commitment to providing reliable service and high-quality rice, especially during times of crisis.
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