The Philippine Coast Guard in the Negros Island Region (NIR) created 66 rescue groups across the region on Thursday in preparation for the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Opong.

In a press conference, Commodore Christopher Auro, the newly installed commander of the Coast Guard District South Visayas-NIR, based in this Negros Oriental capital, said the deployable response groups comprise over 400 personnel stationed at various locations.

“This is in response to the directive given to us by our commandant,” Auro said.

The Coast Guard-NIR’s floating assets are also ready for deployment.

Sea travel in many parts of northern Negros Occidental was cancelled after Signal No. 1 was raised over these areas due to Opong, Auro said.

“We are reminding small seacraft to be conscious of the weather and if possible, to put off sailing out to sea,” he added.

Auro urged parents to warn their children about staying outdoors, especially in coastal areas, during bad weather.

The Coast Guard will also help the police during emergency response efforts, such as evacuating people during floods and similar events.

Meanwhile, Auro said shipping lines are now conscious of weather events and initiate the cancellation of trips ahead of a Coast Guard directive.

He assured the public that they are available 24/7 via hotline, social media, and email to respond to callouts.

The provinces of Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, and Siquijor comprise the Negros Island Region. (PNA)