Malacañang directed on Saturday the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) to “enhance” its disaster preparedness programs as typhoon “Ramil” has entered the country and threatened to hit Northern Luzon.

Press Secretary Cerge Remonde said President Arroyo called anew on the NDCC to reassess and intensify its disaster response in anticipation of another battering of North Luzon this time by “Ramil.”

“The President reiterated its directive to the NDCC to enhance its preparation in the local and national level,” he said in an interview over government-run DzRB.

He also asked the public to pray that the country will be spared from another severe weather disturbance and to work hand in hand with the government in pursuing its relief and rehabilitation efforts after tropical storm “Ondoy” and typhoon “Pepeng” struck the Philippines in a span of two weeks.

“Magtulungan tayo at magdasal tayo that God who has indefinite power, will spare us from these calamities,” Remonde said.

Reacting to a photo published on the front page of the Manila Bulletin showing residents who returned to creeksides in North Fairview, Quezon City amid the President’s directive to relocate them, he said they will ask the local government units to strictly implement such order.

“We appeal to the LGUs in Quezon City (to carry out the President’s directive),” he said.