Thousands displaced by floods in Maguindanao, Lanao

MANILA, Philippines - Over 45,000 people were affected by flashfloods spawned by heavy rains in Maguindanao and Lanao del Sur, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said yesterday. 

The NDRRMC said Barangays Mulaog, Makagiling, Gang, Limbo, Sinditan, Bulaog, Banubo, Kalsada, Bulalo and Katuli in Sultan Kudarat and Tariken, Namuken, Kikir and Simuay in Sultan Mastura town were inundated.

Floods also damaged two bridges in Buldon town. A highway in Sultan Kudarat was not passable to light vehicles as of Thursday night.

The regional disaster risk reduction and management council is assessing the extent of the damage.

Classes were suspended yesterday in Sultan Kudarat, Datu Piang and Northern Kabuntalan.

Local disaster management officials, the military and civilian rescue teams started distributing food packs to affected residents yesterday.

Meanwhile, classes in two cities and 14 towns in Iloilo were suspended due to flooding caused by Typhoon Ompong.

The towns of Ajuy, Tigbauan, Banate, Pavia, Barotac Viejo, Dumangas, Sta. Barbara, Calinog, Maasin, Oton, Alimodian, Bingawan, Dueñas, San Joaquin and Iloilo and Passi cities were affected. – Alexis Romero, John Unson, Jennifer Rendon