The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) reports that a tropical depression remains outside the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) and is not yet directly affecting the country. As of the latest bulletins cited by multiple outlets, the system is located east of Eastern Visayas, with reported distances ranging from about 1,735 to 2,085 kilometers east, depending on the update time. PAGASA says the depression maintains strength, with maximum sustained winds around 55 kilometers per hour near the center and gusts reaching up to 70 kilometers per hour. It moves westward at roughly 15 to 20 kilometers per hour.
PAGASA also forecasts that easterlies will bring rains over parts of Luzon and Visayas even while the depression stays outside PAR. Regarding potential development and timing, one bulletin indicates the depression could intensify into a tropical storm by Friday afternoon or evening, while another says it is expected to enter PAR by Saturday night. PAGASA emphasizes monitoring as conditions may change as the system approaches.
