Filmmaker Jason Paul Laxamana recently expressed his concerns about how typhoon reports in the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) are shared with the public, arguing that the announcements may lead to “confusion and panic” among non-specialists.
“Hot take: a typhoon entering the Philippine Area of Responsibility shouldn’t be announced as news,” Laxamana shared on Facebook, reasoning that “PAR” terminology is meant for meteorologists and often misinterpreted by the public as an imminent landfall alert. He posted his thoughts on October 26, shortly after Tropical Storm Kristine and Super Typhoon Leon entered the Philippine area, impacting regions like Bicol.
Laxamana’s stance received mixed feedback online. Some netizens emphasized that early warnings are essential for public safety, while others agreed that simplifying technical language might reduce unnecessary fear. Responding to the comments, Laxamana clarified his view: “It’s enough to say [the storm] is being monitored, along with its chance of making landfall.”
Laxamana further explained that “PAR” and other meteorological terms might overwhelm or mislead audiences, attributing the use of complex language to “fear-mongering” practices for engagement. However, other users suggested education could address confusion, encouraging a balanced approach to weather reporting.
The filmmaker acknowledged the communication gap, agreeing, “Yes, it’s a communication issue. Technical info is dumped onto the masses instead of digesting [it] for them to understand.” The conversation continued across his posts, with opinions divided on whether simplified reporting or public awareness is the solution to effective disaster communication.
