Pepito (Man-Yi) reached typhoon strength following “rapid intensification,” while Ofel (Usagi) weakened into a severe tropical storm on Friday morning, PAGASA reported.

Typhoon Ofel (international name: Usagi) weakened sharply on Friday after bearing down on the Philippines' northern towns, blowing away houses in its path as authorities brace for another cyclone that could hit the capital Manila over the weekend.

Severe Tropical Storm Pepito (international name: Man-yi) gathered more strength and is now a typhoon, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa).

Typhoon Pepito (Man-Yi) is rapidly intensifying as it approaches Southern Luzon and Eastern Visayas, with state weather bureau PAGASA warning that it may reach super typhoon status before making landfall.