Floods Displace Hundreds in Barangay Tumaga
On Monday, August 25, heavy rains triggered severe flooding that displaced 407 families in Barangay Tumaga, Zamboanga City. The floods emerged after a concrete perimeter fence at Villa San Ignacio Subdivision of Filinvest collapsed, releasing floodwaters into nearby low-lying areas. Local leaders noted that the rapid onset of floodwaters trapped residents in their homes and submerged several vehicles.
Swift Rescue Efforts Save Residents
Sources said rescue teams from the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (CDRRMO), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) responded immediately after an emergency call at 10:22 a.m. The combined efforts successfully evacuated the affected families to safety. Many residents sought shelter at Barangay Tumaga’s multi-purpose hall, where relief goods were distributed by the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO).
Infrastructure Challenges Worsen Flood Impact
Officials reported that the city’s drainage system requires significant improvement to prevent recurring floods. Mayor Khymer Olaso highlighted the urgent need to install water pumps in flood-prone zones to alleviate residents’ struggles during heavy rains. “The city’s drainage system still needs to be improved,” the mayor said, emphasizing that additional measures are being explored to address the long-standing flooding issues in Barangay Tumaga.
Long-Term Solutions Under Consideration
Community members expressed hope that the local government would implement sustainable flood control measures soon. While immediate relief efforts have been commendable, the flooding problem remains persistent. Authorities continue to study ways to strengthen infrastructure and improve disaster preparedness to protect vulnerable communities.
For more news and updates on floods in Zamboanga, visit Filipinokami.com.
