Rolly damage hits P14.1 billion ; death toll at 22

MANILA, Philippines — The death toll due to Super Typhoon Rolly has climbed to 22, with infrastructure and agricultural damage estimated at P14.1 billion.

In its situation report yesterday, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said damage to infrastructure in Bicol provinces alone hit P9.8 billion.

Mimaropa reported P1.01 billion in damage to infrastructure.

The NDRRMC said 56,747 houses were either destroyed or damaged.

At least 60 road sections and seven bridges were affected by flooding, landslides as well as fallen trees and electric posts.

Damage to agriculture hit P2.9 billion and affected 65,897 hectares of land in Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Eastern Visayas and Metro Manila.

A total of 312,583 families or 1.197 million people were affected by the typhoon in seven regions.

At least 165 individuals were injured while three persons remain missing.

Price freeze

Meanwhile, in a memorandum circular issued on Wednesday, the Department of Trade and Industry said an automatic price control is in effect in Catanduanes after it was placed under a state of calamity.

Under the Price Act, a price freeze shall be implemented for basic necessities in areas under a state of calamity for 60 days unless lifted earlier.

Consumers are encouraged to report retailers selling goods beyond prevailing prices.

Violators face a fine of up to P1 million and 10 years imprisonment.

A price freeze had been earlier imposed in Cavite, also  due to Rolly.

Fuel supply

The Department of Energy (DOE) said supply of petroleum products in areas hit by the typhoon, particularly Catanduanes, remains sufficient.

The DOE-Oil Industry Management Bureau said fuel retail outlets in Catanduanes have an average standby supply for one week. Fuel industry players also affirmed healthy inventories, receipt of fresh deliveries and continued site operations.

“While impassable roads have led to some replenishment problems in Caramoran, Viga, Baras and Pandan, deliveries are expected to normalize early next week upon the completion of road clearing operations,” the DOE said.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development said it has extended P18.5 million in assistance to affected provinces.  – Louella Desiderio, Catherine Talavera, Rainier Allan Ronda