DHAKA: The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Thursday declared highest alert as Typhoon Ruby or Hagupit is expected to make a landfall in eastern Philippines on Saturday.

The red alert status came into effect enabling AFP’s Central Command to work with other agencies, including the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council and Office of Civil Defence, AFP spokesman Restituto Padilla said.

After AFP chief Gregorio Pio Catapang gave the order for the red alert, troops and military assets were being pre-positioned in key areas, reports the Times of India.

“Once we ensure their safety, we can guarantee that we will be able to react on time after the disaster strikes,” Padilla added.

“They will be utilised in responding in case its effects will be Yolanda-like.”

Typhoon Yolanda struck most parts of the country in November 2013 and killed more than 6,000 people.

BDST: 0048 HRS, DEC 05, 2014