Nearly 400,000 Affected by Storms in Bicol Region
LEGAZPI CITY — Nearly 400,000 people across Bicol have been affected by the combined impact of the southwest monsoon and tropical cyclones Crising, Dante, and Emong, local sources reported. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in the region confirmed these figures following continuous heavy rains and flooding.
According to an official update from the OCD, 88,896 families or 393,972 individuals in 415 barangays experienced disruptions caused by persistent storms earlier this week. The ongoing weather disturbances have led to severe flooding, forcing many to evacuate and seek shelter.
Displacement and Shelter Conditions
Currently, 929 families, totaling 3,378 individuals, remain displaced. Among them, 293 families (1,014 individuals) are housed in 26 evacuation centers, while 636 families (2,364 individuals) have taken refuge outside these formal centers. These conditions highlight the urgent need for sustained relief efforts.
Flooding and Infrastructure Damage
Floodwaters persist in six barangays—four in Libon, Albay, and two in Ragay, Camarines Sur. Meanwhile, water levels are receding in 19 barangays, including six in Polangui, Albay; nine in Bato, Camarines Sur; and four in Nabua, Camarines Sur. Additionally, flooding has subsided in 24 barangays across Legazpi City, Aroroy in Masbate, Baao, Buhi, and Minalabac in Camarines Sur.
One structural collapse was reported in Barangay Pawa, Legazpi City, where a flood control facility failed. Seven houses suffered partial damage: three in Jovellar, Albay due to fallen trees; one in Aroroy, Masbate from a minor landslide; and three in Castilla, Sorsogon caused by heavy rain.
Agricultural and Roadway Impact
The Department of Agriculture’s regional office estimated damages amounting to P11.46 million affecting crops, farm equipment, and machinery in Catanduanes, Masbate, Camarines Sur, and Sorsogon. These losses threaten local farmers’ livelihoods and food supply chains.
Transportation has also been disrupted. Eight roads in Camarines Sur remain impassable to all vehicles. Meanwhile, two roads—one each in Albay and Camarines Sur—are inaccessible to light vehicles, and one road in Albay is restricted to single-lane traffic.
Relief Efforts and Coordination
The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s regional office has distributed P15.8 million worth of food, non-food items, and financial assistance to affected families. Coordination with local government units continues to ensure efficient response and relief operations.
“There is ongoing coordination with LGUs to ensure that response and relief operations are carried out efficiently,” a regional official confirmed.
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