MAASIN CITY (PIA) -- Gov. Damian Merado of Southern Leyte made good on his word to issue an order suspending work and classes so people can have enough time to prepare for the approaching weather disturbance.

“The suspension of work in all government/private offices and classes in all levels, public and private, within the territorial jurisdiction of the Province of Southern Leyte is hereby ordered effective 1 p.m. of December 15 until 5 p.m. of December 17,” Mercado declared in Executive Order No. 59.

In a video message posted in his facebook page on Tuesday, Mercado warned those living along riverbanks, coastal areas, and mountainous portions of possible dangers like flooding, water surges, and landslides as the general direction of the storm will probably hit the province.

He called people in these areas to evacuate to safety as early as possible.

Pagasa Bulletin No. 3 issued 11 a.m. today, December 15, Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 1 remains hoisted all over the province since 5 a.m.

Moderate rains began pouring in by 1 p.m., the start of the two-and-a-half days suspension of work and classes, a timely and strong reminder that should compel those in the danger zones mentioned by the governor to move to safer grounds. (LDL/MMP/PIA 8-Southern Leyte)