Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval personally leads relief operations to affected residents. (Photo: Malabon PIO)
MANILA, (PIA) — The local government of Malabon has placed the city under a “state of calamity” to ensure the timely delivery of relief and emergency assistance to families affected by severe flooding.
The decision was made after heavy rainfall from the southwest monsoon, strengthened by Typhoon Carina, combined with high tide to inundate various parts of the city.
“Declaring a state of calamity is a crucial step to ensure that we can allocate funds for emergency operations and distribute aid to the families impacted by the floods,” said Mayor Jeannie Sandoval.
The move will allow the city government to utilize its Quick Response Fund, amounting to 30 percent of the Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund or around P40.6 million, for relief and recovery programs.
“This will enable us to effectively and promptly implement emergency assistance, recovery, and rehabilitation measures for the affected residents,” explained City Administrator Dr. Alexander Rosete.
As of Friday, July 26, a total of 1,245 families or 5,125 individuals have taken refuge in the 31 evacuation centers set up by the local government.
Relief operations are underway, with local government employees, rescuers, and volunteers distributing food packs, water, hygiene kits, and other necessities to the evacuees.
On Thursday, July 25, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. joined Mayor Jeannie Sandoval in visiting flood-affected areas and inspecting the damaged Malabon-Navotas River navigational gate, which is currently undergoing repairs.
Senator Loren Legarda also participated in the relief efforts, handing out hot meals to evacuees in Barangay Potrero.
The city government said it will continue coordinating with national agencies to develop long-term solutions to address the recurring flood problems in Malabon, especially during high tide and disasters. (JMP/PIA-NCR)
