Iloilo City declared under ‘state of imminent danger’

CEBU, Philippines -  The Iloilo City Council, in its special session yesterday, placed the city under state of imminent danger, a day ahead of the expected onslaught of typhoon Ruby (international code: Hagupit).

The declaration was made after the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, headed by Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog, submitted a resolution requesting the City Council to hold a special session for the purpose.

Mabilog earlier said the declaration would enable the city to release funds needed for various activities before, during and after the calamity.

To assure the safety of residents, Mabilog also issued Executive Order 112 suspending classes and office, on December 6 and 7, except for those related to disaster and emergency response.

During the CDRRMC meeting, the Bureau of Fire Protection, together with the Iloilo City Police Office, was tasked to go around the villages to implement pre-emptive evacuation of residents in coastal barangays and low-lying areas, if necessary.

The CDRRMC identified several evacuation centers in Iloilo City.  (FREEMAN)