BACOLOD CITY (PIA) — The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) has approved the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) to place Negros Occidental in a state ofcCalamity.
In a special session, the provincial council unanimously approved a resolution declaring a state of calamity over the entire province following the eruption of Kanlaon on Dec. 9 that has affected at least 17,000 individuals, according to a DSWD report.
With the declaration, the province’s calamity fund may now be accessed to provide immediate additional assistance to affected residents, especially those currently taking shelter in different evacuation centers.
Local governments not affected may also extend help to their affected counterparts.
“If we can set that legal framework, many of our LGUs are willing to help. They are just waiting for the [declaration],” said Gov. Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson during the PDRRMC Meeting.
A price freeze on basic necessities and prime commodities will also be imposed to ensure that there is no hoarding of goods in the market and merchants do not implement predatory pricing.
The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) is urged to monitor the situation and safeguard consumer rights amid this emergency.
The declaration also allows the local government to program or reprogram their funds for the repair and upgrading of public infrastructures and facilities.
It also authorizes the utilization of the Quick Response Fund (QRF) from the Local DRRM Fund intended for disaster relief, rehabilitation, reconstruction, recovery, and other works or services necessary at this time. (AGP/BPS/PIA Negros Occidental)
