3rd Infantry Division Mobilizes Disaster Response Teams Ahead of Tropical Cyclone Basyang
The 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) of the Philippine Army has officially placed its Disaster Response Task Units (DRTUs) on high alert in anticipation of Tropical Depression Basyang's approach toward the Visayas region. This proactive measure ensures that troops are prepared for immediate deployment to conduct humanitarian assistance and disaster response operations in areas projected to experience severe weather conditions.
Alert Status and Coordination Efforts
Following the latest advisory from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa), the 3ID has initiated coordination with local government units and partner agencies to streamline relief, rescue, and response efforts. The division's leadership has emphasized that the DRTUs are fully equipped and ready for rapid deployment once the need arises, prioritizing the safety and well-being of communities in the affected provinces.
Pagasa Weather Forecast and Impact Areas
Pagasa has issued Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) Number 2 for Negros Oriental, parts of Cebu, and the southern portion of Negros Occidental, indicating the expectation of damaging winds. Additionally, TCWS 1 has been raised for the rest of Cebu, Negros Occidental, Iloilo, Aklan, Capiz, Guimaras, and Antique, warning residents of strong winds and potential hazards.
As of 11 a.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, heavy rainfall attributed to Basyang and a shear line is forecasted to impact multiple provinces across the Visayas and other parts of the Philippines. The following rainfall projections have been outlined by Pagasa:
- From February 6 until noon on February 7: Rainfall of 100 to 200 millimeters is expected over Palawan, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Antique, Iloilo, and Guimaras.
- For the same period: Rainfall of 50 to 100 millimeters may affect Eastern Samar, Samar, Biliran, Southern Leyte, Leyte, Aklan, Capiz, Surigao del Norte, Dinagat Islands, Agusan del Norte, Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, Misamis Occidental, Lanao del Norte, and Zamboanga del Norte.
- From noon on February 7 until noon on February 8: Rainfall of 50 to 100 millimeters is forecasted over Palawan due to the lingering effects of Basyang.
- From noon on February 8 until noon on February 9: Heavy rainfall of 50 to 100 millimeters is anticipated over Quezon, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, and Camarines Norte because of the shear line.
- From noon on February 9 until noon on February 10: Similar rainfall amounts may impact Cagayan, Isabela, Aurora, Quezon, Oriental Mindoro, Marinduque, and Camarines Norte.
Safety Advisories and Community Preparedness
Residents in areas under TCWS 1 and 2 are strongly advised to prepare for adverse weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rainfall that could lead to flooding and landslides. Weather conditions are expected to deteriorate significantly once the cyclone makes landfall, necessitating heightened vigilance and emergency readiness.
The 3ID has reiterated its unwavering commitment to supporting civil authorities and protecting lives and property during weather-related emergencies. The division's efforts are focused on ensuring timely and effective response operations to mitigate the impact of Tropical Cyclone Basyang on vulnerable communities throughout the Visayas region.
