Rescue in Zambales Saves Elderly Couple and Grandson
In Zambales, an elderly couple and their 4-year-old grandson were rescued after becoming stranded on a mountain in Sitio Dampay, Barangay Salaza, Palauig town. The family was caught in worsening weather conditions that made it impossible for them to safely cross a river. This dramatic rescue highlights the importance of quick response during adverse weather.
Joann Hazel Decano, a representative from the local disaster management office, shared that the 69th Cougar Battalion of the Philippine Army’s 7th Infantry Division requested rescue assistance at around 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday, July 8. This urgent call led to a coordinated effort involving multiple agencies.
Stranded Due to Rising River Waters
The family had been farming across the river when heavy rains caused the water level to rise rapidly. The sudden surge trapped them on the opposite bank, preventing them from returning home. Decano explained in a phone interview that the intense weather made crossing the river too dangerous.
Swift Response from Local Authorities
The Palauig Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), along with the Philippine Coast Guard Palauig Sub-Station and the 69th Cougar Battalion, quickly mobilized to conduct the rescue operation. They successfully brought the elderly couple and their grandson back to safety.
Weather Conditions and Safety Alerts
Since last week, Zambales and nearby Olongapo City have experienced moderate to heavy rains caused by a low-pressure area (LPA) combined with the southwest monsoon. Local leaders noted that these weather patterns increase risks for residents in mountainous and river-adjacent areas.
According to the latest bulletin from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the LPA currently lies outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) and is unlikely to develop into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours. Meanwhile, Tropical Storm Danas, previously named Bising, has re-entered the tropical cyclone monitoring zone but remains outside the PAR.
Authorities continue to monitor weather developments closely to ensure the safety of communities vulnerable to flooding and landslides.
For more news and updates on Zambales rescue efforts and weather alerts, visit Filipinokami.com.
