MARAWI CITY (PIA) — The Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMO) in Lanao del Sur, led by the Provincial DRRMO, are in full swing responding to the aftermath of flash floods and landslides that struck four municipalities in the province on Tuesday night, July 9.
Heavy rains caused by the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) triggered flooding in 27 barangays across Malabang, Balabagan, Kapatagan, and Marogong. Landslides also struck three barangays in Kapatagan, namely Tabuan, Minimao, and Proper Kapatagan.
The Provincial DRRM Council met on July 10 to assess the situation and coordinate relief efforts. Initial reports from Provincial DRRM Officer Shaminoden Sambitory indicate damage to houses, agricultural land, and livestock. Floodwaters also temporarily closed parts of the Narciso Ramos National Highway, stranding motorists.
As of press time, floodwaters have receded in affected areas, and part of the highway (from Malabang to Kapatagan) has reopened after clearing operations.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-10 issued an advisory stating that some sections of the Cotabato-Malabang-Lanao del Norte Road remain impassable due to sand accumulation.
Travelers should use alternative routes. Motorists from Cotabato heading to Lanao del Norte are advised to use the Banisilan-Guiling-Alamada-Libungan Road. Those traveling from Pagadian to Cotabato are also encouraged to use the Dobleston-Butadon Road.
Search, rescue, and retrieval operations are ongoing in Balabagan for two missing individuals, while the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office is actively preparing relief packages for affected families.
A Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) will be conducted to determine the full impact of the disaster and identify the communities’ most pressing needs. (APB/PIA-10/Lanao del Sur)
