The state weather bureau PAGASA raised tropical cyclone wind signal no. 1 over Batanes and parts of Luzon on Friday after Tropical Depression Ester developed around 3:00 a.m., according to BusinessWorld .
The tropical depression is expected to bring intense rainfall to the affected areas, with the Southwest Monsoon enhancing the precipitation. Residents in low-lying and mountainous areas were advised to remain vigilant against possible flooding and landslides.
PAGASA said the storm's effects could persist over the weekend, urging local disaster risk reduction offices to monitor updates and take necessary precautions. No other wind signals were raised as of Friday morning.