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Several local governments in Bicol including Albay and the municipality of Jose Panganiban have declared a state of calamity
MANILA, Philippines – In Bicol, at least 315,160 families, or 1,498,966 individuals were affected by Tropical Storm Kristine, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported on Wednesday, October 23.
As of the DSWD’s 4 pm report, 34,099 families (123,376 individuals) are sheltered in 895 evacuation centers, while another 7,571 families (31,131 individuals) are staying with relatives or friends.
The storm has also stranded at least 2,983 passengers. Five houses were completely destroyed, and 51 others were partially damaged, DSWD reported. A bridge that connects the town of Baao and Iriga City also collapsed, cutting off transportation in the area.
Local governments of Albay, Jose Panganiban in Camarines Norte, Sorsogon, and Tagkawayan town in Quezon Province have declared a state of calamity.
This means retailers cannot increase prices of basic necessities, which include canned fish, locally manufactured instant noodles, bottled water, bread, processed milk, coffee, candles, laundry soap, detergent, and salt can be bought at current prices. The price freeze will apply for about 60 days or until the president declares otherwise.
To ensure the safety of the public, Malacanañang had suspended work in government offices and classes on all levels in the region.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa said three internationally-verified medical teams of 30 may be deployed to Bicol and in northern and central Luzon.
Meanwhile, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has sent a 30-person clearing team and a 20-person search and rescue team to assist in the region.
The Office of Civil Defense earlier reported that several rescue assets have been deployed to the region.
Aside from the military and Coast Guard personnel on the ground, several private groups had also mobilized to bring boats and relief goods in the region, including former vice president Leni Robredo’s Angat Buhay Foundation.
Robredo, who is based in Naga City, warned the public about a person impersonating her to solicit donations.
On social media, there has been a growing call for donations to support those affected by the storm.
The rain in the region has started to ease, but heavy to torrential rain has shifted mainly to Northern Luzon and Central Luzon.
– with reports from Kaycee Valmonte and Iya Gozum/Rappler.com
