By Shiela Mae Butlig
and Bonita Ermac
Classes at all levels in Misamis Oriental, Cagayan de Oro City, and Iligan City have been suspended after the area was placed under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 2, according to the latest advisory from the Department of Science and Technology–DOST-PAGASA.
Provincial and city disaster officials announced the suspension of classes in both public and private schools starting February 5, covering all municipalities and cities in Misamis Oriental, including Gingoog and El Salvador, as well as Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan City.
CDO on full alert
In Cagayan de Oro, Mayor Rolando Uy said the city’s disaster response teams, led by the CDRRMO, are on full standby to respond to possible flooding, landslides, and other weather-related emergencies.
He assured residents that rescue teams, emergency vehicles, evacuation centers, and relief supplies have been prepared, while continuous monitoring is being conducted in flood-prone and high-risk areas.
Iligan suspends classes, work
In Iligan City, Mayor Frederick W. Siao issued Executive Order No. 9, series of 2026, suspending classes in all levels from February 5 to 6 due to Tropical Storm “Basyang.”
Schools were encouraged to adopt modular learning, asynchronous activities, and other alternative learning methods to avoid disruption of academic requirements.
Based on Tropical Cyclone Bulletin No. 9, Iligan remains under TCWS No. 2, with strong winds and moderate to heavy rainfall expected.
The city government also issued Executive Order No. 10, suspending work in government offices from 12:00 noon on February 5 to February 6, upon the recommendation of the Iligan CDRRMO.
The LGU has mobilized its Emergency Operations Center and Incident Management Team for continuous monitoring and information dissemination.
Why this matters
Under Signal No. 2, PAGASA warned of possible minor to moderate damage, particularly to old and light-material structures. Power lines may be affected, leading to localized outages, while public transportation may experience disruptions.
In agricultural areas, banana plants, small trees, and rice crops may suffer damage due to strong winds and heavy rains.
River and flood monitoring
As of 9:00 a.m., the PAGASA Molugan Station reported that the Tagoloan River remains at normal water level.
However, authorities continue close monitoring as it receives water from several river systems in Bukidnon, raising concerns over possible downstream flooding.
Residents near rivers, low-lying areas, and landslide-prone zones were advised to stay alert as persistent rainfall may still trigger flash floods and soil erosion.
Transportation and travel
No flight cancellations were recorded at Laguindingan Airport as of 9:30 a.m., but airport officials remain on standby for possible weather-related disruptions.
Transport operators and port authorities have also been instructed to closely monitor weather conditions and implement safety measures when needed.
LGUs on standby
Local government units across Misamis Oriental, Cagayan de Oro, and Iligan are on heightened alert, coordinating with disaster offices, police, and health units to ensure quick response if conditions worsen.
Emergency hotlines have been activated, and barangay officials have been directed to assist vulnerable residents.
What residents should do
Authorities reminded the public to:
Monitor official PAGASA and LGU advisories
Avoid unnecessary travel, especially near rivers and slopes
Secure light materials and check roofing and electrical lines
Prepare emergency kits and charge communication devices
Report flooding, landslides, and fallen power lines to authorities
In Iligan, residents may contact the ICDRRMO hotlines at 811 / 221-8459 or 0997-726-2692 (Globe) for emergencies.
Officials urged the public to remain calm, vigilant, and well-informed, stressing that early preparedness and cooperation are key to minimizing risks from Tropical Depression Basyang.
