LEGAZPI CITY, July 9 -- Masbate's provincial government implemented precautionary measures on Thursday to safeguard the lives, safety, and well-being of its residents as Typhoon Inday nears and the southwest monsoon or 'habagat" continues to affect the weather in the island province.

Masbate Governor Richard Kho issued a directive on Wednesday to immediately carry out pre-emptive and, when necessary, forced evacuations of residents living in low-lying, coastal, and other high-risk areas, based on assessments by their respective local government units.

Kho also suspended sea travel, particularly for all small sea vessels and watercraft, in the waters of Masbate.

He instructed school heads and principals, in coordination with their local...