State of Calamity Declared in Maguindanao Towns
DAVAO CITY – A state of calamity has been declared in three towns in Maguindanao del Sur following severe flooding that has impacted at least 300,000 residents. Reports indicate that the towns of Ampatuan, Datu Piang, and Mamasapano remain heavily flooded, with many communities still submerged.
Local emergency action sources say that the flooding stems from continuous heavy rains brought by the Intertropical Convergence Zone and a low-pressure area since May 14. The swelling of the nearby Rio Grande de Mindanao caused significant inundation, especially in the town proper of Datu Piang.
Flooding Extends to Neighboring Towns
Beyond the three towns under the state of calamity, other municipalities in Maguindanao del Sur have also been affected. These include Datu Abdullah Sangki, Datu Anggal Midtimbang, Datu Salibo, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Datu Hoffer Ampatuan, Guindulungan, Shariff Aguak, Shariff Saydona Mustapha, Sultan sa Barongis, and Talayan. In addition, flooding has impacted Datu Odin Sinsuat and Talitay in Maguindanao del Norte.
These areas lie around the Ligawasan Marsh, a 200,000-hectare basin that collects water from Mindanao’s river systems, making them vulnerable to flooding during heavy rains. Lamitan City in Basilan has also experienced flooding, according to local emergency reports.
Current Situation and Impact
As of the afternoon of May 22, authorities reported that 135 barangays remain flooded, with 129 located in Maguindanao del Norte. Most of these areas continue to face high water levels, as heavy rains persist across the region. Only a few towns have seen water levels recede.
Around 6,000 residents are currently taking refuge in various evacuation centers. Floodwaters have damaged nearly 2,000 hectares of agricultural land, affecting local farmers and food supply.
Relief Efforts Underway
The regional Ministry of Social Services and Development is actively distributing relief items to affected families. These include food packs, clean drinking water, medicines, sleeping mats, and hygiene kits aimed at addressing immediate needs.
Community leaders urge continued vigilance as weather conditions remain unstable. Recovery efforts are ongoing to assist those displaced and to repair the damage caused by the floods.
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