According to the National Civil Defence Steering Committee, the tropical depression strengthened from a low-pressure system on Wednesday night and was centred at 16.9 degrees north latitude and 115.2 degrees east longitude as of 10 pm, with maximum winds of force 6 and gusts of up to force 8.
The system is forecast to move northeast at around 20 kph over the next 24 hours while maintaining its current strength.
Authorities have instructed local governments and relevant ministries to closely monitor developments, manage offshore fishing activities and notify vessels of the depression's location and projected path to help them avoid dangerous areas.
The danger zone over the next 24 hours is forecast to cover waters between 16 and 22 degrees north latitude and 114 and 119.5 degrees east longitude.
The committee also asked local authorities and relevant agencies to prepare rescue personnel and equipment for possible emergencies and maintain round-the-clock monitoring and reporting.