The provincial governments of Samar and Eastern Samar have suspended classes at all levels and work in all government offices from November 3 to 4, as Tropical Storm Tino threatens to bring heavy rains and strong winds over Eastern Visayas.
In Executive Order No. 21-2025 issued on Sunday, November 2, Samar Governor Sharee Ann Tan ordered the suspension of classes in both public and private schools, as well as work in all government offices, except for personnel involved in peacekeeping, disaster response, health, sanitation, and traffic operations.
Also on Sunday, Eastern Samar Governor Ralph Vincent Evardone issued an executive order suspending classes and government work on the same dates to ensure public safety amid possible flooding, landslides, and other weather-related hazards.
Both governors released their directives following advisories from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), which placed parts of Eastern Visayas under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 on November 2. As of 10 a.m. Sunday, Pagasa said Tino was located 955 kilometers east of Eastern Visayas, with maximum sustained winds of 85 kilometers per hour near the center and gusts of up to 105 kph.
The storm is moving westward and may make landfall over Eastern Samar or the Dinagat Islands late Monday or early Tuesday (November 3-4). Pagasa also warned that Tino could intensify into a typhoon within 24 hours.
Earlier, the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in Eastern Visayas strongly advised the deferment of all non-essential travel to and from the region starting November 2 until weather conditions improve.
The advisory was issued to prevent disruptions in transport, sea travel, and logistics due to expected strong winds, rough seas, and heavy rainfall.
Several local government units and state universities across Eastern Visayas have likewise announced the suspension of classes and work due to Tino. /mcm