Mindoro Island Faces Flooding Crisis from Heavy Rains
CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro — Mindoro Island continues to suffer as at least 14 towns and one city remain flooded, impacting 60 barangays due to Tropical Storm “Dante,” Typhoon “Emong,” and the persistent southwest monsoon. These weather disturbances have brought relentless heavy rains, worsening the flooding situation across both Oriental and Occidental Mindoro.
Local authorities reported that 27 barangays in Calapan City, 11 in Naujan, seven in Pola, eight in Victoria, four each in Baco and San Teodoro, two each in Socorro and Puerto Galera, and one in Gloria are submerged in water reaching knee to chest level. The ongoing floods have forced thousands to seek safer grounds.
Evacuations and Road Closures Amid Rising Waters
Vincent Gahol, head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Office in Oriental Mindoro, shared that evacuations are underway in 26 barangays. Approximately 3,669 families—totaling 10,669 individuals—are either staying in evacuation centers or with relatives and neighbors in elevated areas.
“Three major roads in Calapan City are currently impassable to all vehicles. Additionally, the road in Sitio Parang, Poblacion Baco, is blocked for all vehicles, and the route to Barangay Mangangan I is closed to light vehicles,” Gahol explained.
River levels are also a major concern. Two primary river systems in Calapan City and three in Baco have reached critical conditions. Meanwhile, several rivers in Calapan City, Socorro, Bansud, and Bongabong remain above normal levels, increasing the risk of further flooding.
Agricultural Damage and Travel Advisories
The flooding has caused significant damage to agriculture in Oriental Mindoro, with losses estimated at over 15 million pesos. Authorities advise motorists to avoid traveling to and from Calapan City, especially through the villages of Bucayao and Panggalaan, where roads remain submerged and unsafe.
“Rain continues to pour, and water levels are expected to rise. We urge everyone to take extra precautions,” the provincial disaster office advised.
Occidental Mindoro Also Grapples with Flood Impact
In Occidental Mindoro, six municipalities remain underwater, affecting 18 barangays. Local officials report that 578 families, or 2,167 individuals, are currently sheltered in evacuation centers, while an additional 198 families (805 people) are staying with relatives or friends outside the centers.
Despite the flooding, essential services such as power, water, telecommunications, and road access remain operational. However, operations at Tilik Port on Lubang Island in Caminawit, San Jose, have been suspended. Airport flights in San Jose are also canceled until further notice.
For more news and updates on Mindoro Island floods, visit Filipinokami.com.
