The government is closely monitoring Tropical Depression Odette which, according to weather forecasters, will likely enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility as a severe tropical storm on the evening of December 14.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is already making the necessary preparations in coordination with the regional and local disaster risk reduction and management councils to ensure the safety of the public.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development reports that as of Sunday, December 12, it has available stockpiles and standby funds earmarked for disaster response.

We ask everyone, especially those residing in affected areas, to keep up to date with the latest weather advisories and bulletins, to take precautionary measures, and to cooperate with local authorities should there be a need for evacuation or other necessary actions.