Batangas in state of calamity as more bodies found

MANILA, Philippines — Following extensive damage caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, the Batangas provincial government has declared a state of calamity across the entire province.

“At least two towns – Cuenca and Laurel – have already declared a state of calamity, prompting us to follow suit based on the recommendation of the provincial disaster risk reduction management council,” Vice Gov. Mark Leviste stated.

Leviste said the Sangguniang Panlalawigan was convened on Friday, where all members unanimously approved the state of calamity declaration.

In a phone interview, the vice governor confirmed that P79 million had been allocated from their quick response fund and the budget realigned to address the immediate needs of affected residents.

The funds will be used to provide food packs, financial aid, burial assistance, medicines, hygiene kits, water sanitation supplies and other essential support to affected individuals and families.

“Gov. Dodo Mandanas and I are actively leading the provincial government’s efforts to address the aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine in Batangas,” Leviste added.

He also appealed for assistance from the national government and private entities, particularly the need for human resources and clearing equipment.

“We lack backhoes, generators and light towers for clearing operations. We have already augmented human resources from OCD (Office of Civil Defense), PCG (Philippine Coast Guard) and PNP (Philippine National Police), but mobilization is still lacking,” said Amor Calayan, head of Batangas provincial disaster risk reduction and management office (PDRRMO).

She added that they were given enough warning during a pre-disaster analysis meeting with the OCD, but the rains brought by Kristine were too intense.

“We expected around 50 to 100 mm of rain in 24 hours, but the heavy rains were sustained. The winds were also strong,” said Calayan.

The Batangas PDRRMO is prioritizing areas isolated due to the damages, according to Calayan.

Kristine has left 52 casualties, 21 missing and 18 injured in the entire province.

Agricultural and fisheries damages are estimated at P118 million, according to the PDRRMO.

Meanwhile, a landslide in Lipa City last Thursday resulted in three persons missing and another three injured. They were rushed to the San Jose District Hospital for treatment.

Laurel town also suffered seven casualties as a result of landslides, while Balete town is still searching for seven missing after a flash flood swept away their houses toward Taal Lake. — Emmanuel Tupas, Ed Amoroso