Fire razes Ilocos Norte grocery store

By Leilanie Adriano

LAOAG CITY – The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) on Wednesday urged the public anew to take all necessary precautions as fire hit a grocery store in a building located in Barangay 2, Garreta, Badoc, Ilocos Norte.
    Responding firefighters from the BFP in Badoc station said the investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of the fire which started around 5:20 a.m. at the grocery building owned by Emma Baldovi and was declared fire out on the first alarm at 6:45 a.m.
    The BFP has earlier launched the “Oplan Paalala-Iwas Paputok” nationwide to avoid firecracker-related incidents, and BFP personnel in Ilocos Norte have been on full alert status or “Code Red" from December 23, 2023, to January 1, 2024.
    In an interview, Fire Officer III Lee Jay Lucero, chief of the Public Information Unit of BFP-Ilocos Norte, said all personnel are on standby to respond to fire that may be caused by faulty Christmas lights and firecrackers, among others.
    He also reminded the public of fire safety tips and the proper lighting of firecrackers.
    “Para maiwasan ang mga sunog sa mga bahay dahil sa paputok, maaring maghanda ang mga residente ng fire extinguishers o mga timba na may tubig para mas maagang maagapan kung magka-sunog (To avoid fire in houses due to firecrackers, residents could prepare fire extinguishers or pails of water for immediate use in case of fire),” he said.
Households with "anahaw" (palm leaves) roofing are likewise advised to wet the roofing an hour before the New Year’s revelry as a precautionary measure in case a lighted firecracker falls on the roof.
    In the meantime, Lucero said personnel of BFP-Ilocos Norte have been continuously inspecting firecracker vendors to confiscate any illegal fireworks, check their permits to sell, and make sure that they have emergency fire extinguishers in their stores.
    Prohibited firecrackers include watusi or dancing firecracker, piccolo, pop pop, Super Lolo, boga, big Judah’s belt, Goodbye Philippines, Mother Rockets, Lolo Thunder, pillbox, Big Bawang, kwiton, kabasi, Atomic Bomb, five star, pla-pla, og, giant whistle bomb, and unlabeled firecrackers.
    As per Republic Act No. 7183 or the law on pyrotechnic devices, persons caught manufacturing, selling, distributing, and purchasing illegal firecrackers may be imprisoned from six months to a year, and may be fined from P20,000 to P30,000.
    The BFP is also encouraging the public to use alternative noisemakers like “torotot” or horns, car or motor honks, banging pot lids, and pan covers as improvised cymbals, tambourines or drums, or play music to welcome the new year. – PNA

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P173-M disaster projects for funding: Sagada mayor

By Gina Dizon

SAGADA Mountain Province -- Post -typhoon Egay disaster preparedness projects in 14 barangays of this town estimated at P172 million are up for funding from the national Office of Civil Defense.
    Sagada mayor Felicito Dula bared this during meeting of municipal disaster risk reduction council attended by barangay officials, local government staff and representatives from non-government organizations.
    Dula said the municipality is also lobbying for other funding from the Departments of Local Government and Agriculture.   
Rehabilitation of drainage systems, pathways, farm to market roads, irrigation canals, roads and retaining walls were projects identified in the P173 million project cost.
    Sagada resettlement project topped estimated cost of P50 million followed by rehabilitation of Ato-Engan- farm to market road at P30 million.
    Ato-Engan FMR collapsed during Egay typhoon last July preventing vehicles from passing the road.  
    This also caused affected resident Janice Borja to petition FMR implementors Dept. of Agriculture and the Municipal LGU to repair the damaged road. 
    Rehabilitation of Ambasing- Balugan road costing P25 million was also forwarded for its favorable approval by the OCD.
    Said road is prone to landslides during typhoons where disastrous Egay caused massive soil and waters that poured from the mountains of Ampacao down the Ambasing- Balugan road and prevented vehicular access to reach the barangay.
    A P5 million rehabilitation fund was estimated for Atey- Demang road access that also collapsed during typhoon Egay.
    Also, P5 million was identified for the damaged Tetep-an road during typhoon Egay.
    Also included was the P2.5 million Paytokan-Tangeb road and P5 million rehabilitation of slope retaining wall of Sagada Central School here at Patay barangay.
    A total of P10 million Ankileng-Pakil FMR rehabilitation and improvement of a P4.5 million Datil-Nangongan FMR at Patay barangay was also forwarded and a P5 million rehabilitation for Pey-asan - Balugan drainage system.
    The Guesang drainage system at Bangaan barangay costs P5 million, Dula said.
Other rehabilitation projects were set for barangays of Nacagang, Suyo, Pide, Ambasing, Madongo, Fidelisan, Aguid and Antadao.   
    Municipal DRRRMC officer Eddie Dapliyan urged barangay officials to report disaster incidents at the LDRRMC office for proper recording and assistance.

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SNAP-Magat cited ‘nat’l private disaster management champion’

By Samantha Tan

SN Aboitiz Power Magat (SNAP-Magat) was declared the winner in the private organization category at the 23rd National Gawad Kalasag awarding ceremony held Dec. 11 at Manila Hotel.
    The Gawad Kalasag award is given to local government units, critical institutions, and special organizations for their efforts in disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness, climate change adaptation, and humanitarian assistance that protect high-risk communities.
    The award recognizes the company's commitment to sustainable operations and safety. “We are committed to safeguarding our employees and host communities, which are an integral part of our business,” SNAP President and Chief Executive Officer Joseph Yu said.
    Last year, SNAP-Magat won the national title in the same category, while SNAP-Benguet was a runner-up. This year, both companies were champions in their respective regions demonstrating SNAP plants’ consistency and commitment to safety and excellence in operations.
    The Gawad Kalasag, organized by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) and Office of Civil Defense (OCD), is the country's premier award-giving body which recognizes organizations that have designed and implemented comprehensive Disaster Risk Reduction and Management programs to protect high-risk communities and increase their resilience and capability to respond to and minimize disasters.

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Manila North Road in Pagudpud impassable due to major landslides

LANDSLIDES and rockslides hit the Manila North Road at Pancian village in Pagudpud town, Ilocos Norte hampering mobility among travelers. (Photo courtesy of the DPWH-Ilocos)

By John Michael Mugas 

LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte—A portion of a national highway in Pagudpud town in Ilocos Norte province has been closed to motorists on Sunday, Dec. 3, due to “major” landslides, the regional Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said.
In an advisory, the DPWH said that a part of the Manila North Road traversing Pancian village has been “closed to traffic due to major slides” after the town has been experiencing intermittent rainy conditions this week.
    The provincial government said in a separate advisory on Sunday that the “continuous landslide and falling of rocks” caused the portion of the road to be not passable to “all types of vehicles.”
    Pancian village chairperson Jessie Lagundino, in a radio interview, said that the series of landslides spanned at least 15 meters.
    Clearing operations were still ongoing, the DPWH said.
    The Manila North Road is a major access point to most parts of Cagayan Valley and the Ilocos region.

This portion of the national highway often faces road closures due to rock and landslides especially in times of inclement weather.

In January, a government proposal was floated that a second viaduct could be constructed in the area to ease the worries of travelers and to ensure their safety while traveling the portion as well.

 

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Bontoc fire victims receive another batch of financial donations

By Alpine L. Killa- Malwagay and Kayna Casey Shalou Ubongen

BONTOC, Mountain Province – The Bontoc local government disbursed another batch of financial donations worth P581,961.10 for victims of fire that burned several houses and buildings here in Barangay Poblacion on April 11.
    Municipal Social Welfare and Development officer Araceli Shane Bayanos said eight fire victims with partially damaged structures received P8,000 each while the 27 owners of totally damaged structures received P20,000 each.
    Aside from the P581, 961.10 that was divided and distributed to 35 owners of partially and totally damaged structures, Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong, Jr., turned over the donation of International Igorot Organization (IGO) through Lyn Madalang amounting to P29,000.
    The mayor added P3, 400 from his pocket, thus, totaling P32, 400.
    The said amount was equally divided among the 27 owners of totally damaged structures with each receiving additional P1, 200.
Mayor Tudlong urged recipients to look past the devastation and set life anew.
    “God did not give us a burden that we cannot carry. The tragic incident is not a test of our faith in God. It strengthens our faith in Him. We are with you, as you get back on your feet and recover from the effects of the tragic fire incident,” the mayor added.
    We are thankful for all the in-kind and monetary donations which came from the help and love of our fellow community members, neighbors, people from abroad and from various people who want to help,” Tudlong added.
    Since the start of donation drive for fire victims, the mayor assured that every single centavo of the donations received by the Bontoc LGU will go to those affected.
    The disbursement of financial donations on Nov. 14 at the Bontoc Municipal Capitol lobby was facilitated by the MSWDO and the Office of the Municipal Treasurer.
    Also in attendance was Municipal Administrator Eric Fulangen, Sr. 
 
 
 

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Signify ups LGU disaster readiness with solar street lighting projects in Itogon

Tech News

Paula Alexandra A. Combalicer

ITOGON, Benguet – Signify (formerly Philips Lighting), a world leader in lighting, is continuing its advocacy for disaster-ready lighting solutions through its latest public project in Itogon, Benguet. As the world marks the United Nations International Day for Risk Reduction, the municipality of Itogon unveiled its new dialysis and evacuation center at Malasin Ucab, complete with reliable solar street lighting from Signify Philippines.
    “Like many other regions in the Philippines, we experience several natural disasters a year. Putting up resilient infrastructure such as the facilities for our new evacuation center is so important to protect our people,” shared Mayor Bernard Waclin.
    To help ensure that the rescue and relief operations are done effectively when a crisis hits, the municipality partnered with Signify Philippines to install LED solar street lighting in the area. This is crucial as areas struck with typhoons or earthquakes often lose connection to the power grid immediately, leaving them in the dark as they try to deliver life-saving relief operations to those most in need. 
    As climate change escalates, and with the country's energy shortage, it becomes increasingly crucial for Philippine LGUs to prioritize disaster preparedness and enhance solutions that maximize effectiveness and efficiency. Signify remains committed to partnering with more LGUs, helping them strengthen their disaster readiness and provide tailored lighting solutions to protect their people. Recently, Signify has worked with cities like Puerto Princesa, Ormoc, Valenzuela, and General Santos for citywide upgrades through high-performing LED and solar street lighting technologies. These cities now enjoy major energy savings and an increase in energy security.
 
 
 

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Importance of community-based disaster risk reduction, management

SM Updates

By Josie Lyn L. Galario 

A person's safety during calamities is mainly dependent on their community's disaster preparedness. No matter how ready they are for all possible catastrophic scenarios, every bit of preparation can go down the drain if their community cannot respond effectively to such events.  
    It is why a community-based disaster risk reduction and management plan (CBDRRMP) is essential. It places the responsibility of being prepared for calamities and other emergencies on the community as a whole, ensuring that organizations, households and individuals can work together in making their community more resilient in the face of disaster. 
 CBDRRMP is important, especially for countries highly vulnerable to disasters, such as the Philippines. Situated within the Pacific Ring of Fire and typhoon belt, the Philippines is frequented by earthquakes and volcanic eruptions and typhoons respectively. The country ranked 9th in the world in terms of vulnerability to calamities in the 2020 World Risk Index.  
    One of the most common events experienced by the Philippines is flooding, which underscores the importance of effective floodwater management. There are many ways that local government units are doing this. Efforts range from structural measures such as sizeable underground drainage systems, floodways, pumping stations, flood warning systems, and urban greening to non-structural measures such as minimizing plastic waste, a primary culprit in urban flooding.   
    With the country situated on five active fault lines, Filipinos must also prepare for earthquakes. It is why many buildings are equipped with earthquake-resistance features. Taking earthquake resilience in the country further are the periodic earthquake drills implemented at the national and organizational levels.
    These are good examples of effective CBDRR, where both the authorities and the citizens work together to ensure the safety of life and property in their communities. 
    As a trusted and responsible developer of integrated properties, SM has always been committed to promoting Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) in its communities, which is evident in many of its malls that employ infrastructure design centered on disaster resilience. SM allocates 10% of its capital expenditures to incorporate disaster-resilient features, of which installing water management design features is one of them.  
    A few examples of these are SM City Marikina, elevated by several rows of concrete stilts to protect tenants and mall-goers during extreme floods. SM Mall of Asia was built with a storm surge barrier for added protection during storm surges, and several malls employ catchment tanks for recycling rainwater. The launch of the Rainwater Catchment facility in SM City Baguio is one of the first of its kind in a mall-setting facility that converts rainwater to potable water and helps contribute to the city’s water conservation and recycling efforts.
 “Wherever SM is, we try to help our communities become resilient to changing weather patterns,” explains Arch. Fides Garcia-Hsu, Vice President of SM Engineering, Design and Development.  “Nationwide, we have 25 malls equipped with rainwater catchment facilities that help rain water management to avoid flash floods for surrounding communities.” 
    Supporting these are several initiatives focused capacity-building for its stakeholders. It includes workshops & learning sessions on Disaster Risk Resilience Management and regular participation in the quarterly national simultaneous earthquake drills for its employees, and the annual Emergency Preparedness Forum for persons with disabilities and the elderly, two of the most vulnerable sectors of society during disasters. 
    Similarly, in line with its multi-stakeholder approach, SM Prime has also continuously built long-term partnerships with organizations that advocate for a disaster-resilient Philippines. It includes collaboration between schools and SM Supermalls in areas of learning such as launching of the Sustainability Features and Greening Effects Tour.
    Students are equipped with knowledge about the mall’s sustainability initiatives like the importance of Rainwater Treatment Facility, which has a remarkable role in reducing flood volumes, providing an important contribution to avoiding potential drainage system failures during typhoon events.
     It also includes collaborations with ARISE-Philippines, the National Resilience Council, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, the Office of Civil Defense, and the Bureau of Fire Protection, to name a few. 
    SM Prime, one of the leading integrated property developers in Southeast Asia, remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. Sustainability and Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience form part of SM Prime's core business strategies. It ensures that its risk-informed investments catalyze sustainable development and positive change in the communities where it operates. 
    For more information on SM Prime Holdings and its other programs towards disaster preparedness, visit their website at www.smprime.com. 

 

 

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34 fire-affected Bontoc bizmen each given P30k

By Alpine L. Killa-Malwgay

BONTOC, Mountain Province - Thirty-four business owners in this capital town whose source of living was gravely affected by the April 11 fire that razed their establishments in Poblacion, received livelihood starter kits worth P30,000 each last week.
    The goods, materials, and equipment received by the beneficiaries were funded by the Dept. of Labor and Employment (DOLE). 
Prior to the provision of livelihood assistance, the Bontoc local government through Bontoc Mayor Jerome "Chagsen" Tudlong, Jr., submitted 34 livelihood project proposals and endorsements to the DOLE.
    The Municipal Public Employment Service Office through Labor and employment officer Jenelyn Caluza provided technical assistance in preparation of project proposals and documents.
    Tudlong extended gratitude to the DOLE for its assistance to the municipality.
    He added with meager budget or limited resources of the municipal government, it has to collaborate with national government and partner stakeholders to be able to extend assistance to beneficiaries.
    The mayor added the livelihood kits composed of equipment, materials, and goods, will be of great help to fire victims in starting income-generating undertakings. 
    DOLE regional director Nathaniel Lacambra expressed support of the department to fire victims urging recipients to use livelihood kits to generate income. 
    Present during the turnover were Lacambra, Political Affairs Officer Dionisio Wacdisen representing Mountain Province Rep. Maximo Dalog, Jr., DOLE Mountain Province head Venus Guinjicna, Tudlong, Sangguniang Bayan members Jupiter Jule Kalangeg, Julian Chumacog and Benedict Odsey II, Municipal Administrator Eric Fulangen, Sr., Caluza, and DOLE personnel.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Baguio ‘smart command center’ leads to incidents’ fast check; 64 cases noted

BAGUIO CITY -- Personnel from the Baguio City Police Office and City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office transmitted 604 occurrences to the Baguio Smart City Command Center (SC3) through iCom/Hyteria radios for quicker dispatch from Jan. 1 to August 31.
    Adam Bert Lacay, information systems analyst II of the City Mayor’s Office’s Management Information Technology Division (MITD), bared this in meeting of city officials at City Hall led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong.
    He said 97 reports from Baguio In My Pocket (BIMP) users were received by BIMP 911 Emergency Medical Service (EMS) during the period with requests for CDRRMO and general assistance as the most submitted.  
    Meanwhile, a total of 933 incidents were received via CDRRMO hotlines with medical and general assistance topping the list of incidents, Lacay said.

The SC3 has three main programs and activities: Smart City Operations (SCO); Research, Maintenance and Project Development (RMPD); and General Administrative Support (GAS).

SCO include Emergency Telecommunications where 24/7 call taking and call report generation are conducted; CCTV Playback and Extraction Services where video monitoring/playback/ extraction as critical video evidence in the resolution of incidents as the need arises are made; Dashboard Monitoring and Management where 24/7 regular monitoring, management and analytics generation with the Smart City platform are done.

In the RMDP are special projects like monitoring of indicators for efficient redevelopment and value assessment and flood early warning system; technical support and maintenance for network management and maintenance, and more; project development like video surveillance system enhancement and maintenance project and others.

Its GAS program includes visits of guests from LGUs and other sectors for tours and benchmarking; recording of processed papers like payroll, and more; conduct of training like cybersecurity, file storage system, crisis hotline, and others.-Gaby B. Keith

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Bontoc town folks trained for emergencies

BONTOC, Mountain Province – Folks here joined training in Barangay Mainit  here as responders in far barangays during emergencies.
    Training included basic life support and standard first aid .
    There were 34 trainees composed of Mainit youth, barangay officials, health workers and Guina-ang youth in the Oct. 6–8 training.
    The event was headed by the Bontoc local government through the Local Youth Development Office in partnership with Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) of Mainit.

Technical assistance and logistic support were provided by Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Emergency Response Team and Samoki Mountain Rescue Team. 

The training team included personnel from Bontoc LGU, BERT, Samoki Mountain Rescue Team, and Mountain Province General Comprehensive High School (MPGCHS).

Lectures on principles of emergency care, introduction to BLS, cardio-pulmonary resuscitation (CPR), foreign body airway obstruction (FBAO) management and basic first aid were discussed.

Facilitators also taught students skills and proper techniques for CPR, FBAO management, wound management using triangular and elastic bandaging techniques, and the management of suspected fractures using splinting techniques.
Participants were evaluated individually on their skills in CPR and FBAO.

As part of their evaluation, a simulation exercise was conducted to evaluate the participant's knowledge gained and skills developed in training.

Municipal Administrator Eric Fulangen, Sr., in his message during the first day, urged participants, especially the youth, to actively participate in said training, since barangays are far from medical facilities. -- Bontoc MDRRMO 

 

 

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Climate Resilience: Mitigating Global Disasters

Education Unboxed

Erwin L. Rimban

In a world where climate change is an ever-present reality, the need for climate resilience has never been more urgent. The increasing frequency and severity of natural disasters, from hurricanes and floods to wildfires and droughts, serve as stark reminders that we must adapt and mitigate the effects of a changing climate.
    Our communities, regardless of their location, are vulnerable to these global disasters. But the good news is that we have the power to enhance our resilience and reduce the impact of such events. It begins with understanding the challenges we face and taking proactive measures to protect our environment and our way of life.
Understanding the Climate Challenge
Climate change, driven by human activities such as the burning of fossil fuels and deforestation, has led to rising global temperatures. This warming, in turn, triggers a domino effect of climatic shifts. Glaciers are melting, sea levels are rising, and extreme weather events are becoming more common.

    One of the most alarming consequences is the intensification of natural disasters. Hurricanes now carry more destructive force, flooding is more widespread, and wildfires are more frequent. Communities are left grappling with the aftermath, facing not only immediate damage but also long-term economic and environmental consequences.

Building Climate Resilience

While we cannot completely halt climate change overnight, we can take meaningful steps to build climate resilience. Here are some strategies that individuals, communities, and nations can adopt:

    Sustainable Practices: Embrace sustainable practices in everyday life, from reducing energy consumption and waste to supporting local, eco-friendly initiatives. Small actions add up and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Disaster Preparedness: 

Develop comprehensive disaster preparedness plans that include evacuation routes, emergency kits, and communication strategies. Regular drills and community involvement can enhance preparedness.

    Infrastructure Improvements: Invest in resilient infrastructure, such as flood defenses, sustainable urban planning, and infrastructure that can withstand extreme weather events. This not only protects communities but also creates jobs and fosters economic growth.

Reforestation and Conservation: 

Promote reforestation efforts and conservation initiatives to protect natural habitats and mitigate the effects of climate change. Healthy ecosystems play a crucial role in absorbing carbon emissions and regulating weather patterns.

Renewable Energy:

Transition to renewable energy sources like solar and wind power. Clean energy reduces greenhouse gas emissions and lessens our reliance on fossil fuels.

Education and Advocacy: 

Raise awareness about climate change and its impact on global disasters. Advocate for policies that prioritize environmental conservation and climate resilience.

The Power of Community Action

Climate resilience is not solely the responsibility of governments and international organizations; it begins within our communities. When neighbors come together to address climate challenges, they become more resilient and better equipped to respond to disasters.

Community-led initiatives, such as tree planting campaigns, sustainable agriculture practices, and local clean energy projects, can make a significant difference. They not only reduce carbon emissions but also enhance local resilience to climate-related disasters.

    In conclusion, the path to climate resilience is one that requires collective action, education, and a commitment to sustainable living. By adopting these strategies and working together, we can mitigate the impact of global disasters and build a more resilient world for ourselves and future generations.

    Let's embrace the challenge of climate change as an opportunity to create a more sustainable, resilient, and vibrant community—one that is better equipped to face the uncertainties of our changing world.

    For comments and reactions, you may send an email to: elrimban@alum.up.edu.ph

 

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Landslides pose danger to Sagada villagers’ lives

Balugan, Sagada

By Gina Dizon

SAGADA, Mountain Province – Residents of Barangay Balugan here urged construction of drainage and construction walls as landslides occurred often posing danger to lives and property like what happened over the years.
    Mild to strong rains that occurred in this food basket in southern Sagada created  landslides along the Balugan road blocking the route and preventing motorists from going inside or outside from the village.     
    That happened at the height of typhoon Egay. With no intervention in the near future by government or concerned groups, more landslides are bound to happen, local folks said.
    Every time landslides happened, veggies from Balugan were prevented from getting transported from the village to the central tourist town.
    Balugan is home to food farms of all sorts- carrots, potatoes, cabbage, green pepper to include cucumber, radish, bananas and citrus.  
    Harvest is profuse with an ample supply of water that comes from the watersheds of Mount Pakad and Ampakaw where six drainage canals were constructed with waters that flow to big box culverts to irrigation canals.
    Waters here irrigate rice fields and vegetable gardens of Pide, Namsong and Balugan and  also supplies domestic water of some 800 villagers.
    But the source of water supply could be bane to the village since when landslides occur,  gardens and rice fields are eroded threatening the loss of human lives.
    Water sources from atop these mountains need checking to find out what interventions can be done to prevent soil from breaking up causing landslides, causing road blockades, eroding gardens and threatening residences, some folks said.
    Michael Baani, one among farmers and community leaders said they had gone up the mountains of Pakad and excavated canals.
Stronger drainage materials like cement and steel are needed to address the problem, he said. 
    Six outlets flowing to box and round culverts had been constructed along slopes of the mountains of Balugan.
    One was clogged with  rocks from the mountains that resulted to debris flowing to the road pavement during Typhoon Egay.
    Volumes of soil from the mountain top of Pakad to Pey-asan Falls and debris cascaded along the Ambasing-Balugan road isolating the village for days.
    Not until the local government unit scraped off the soil lined some 200 meters along the road side that motorists were able to pass by. 
Sagada mayor Felicito Dula said he hoped the provincial government would clear the area of debris since the road is classified as provincial road.
    Martina Madongit from Sitio Pey-asan said the government should  install retaining walls and parapet near the road above her house to prevent soil and rain waters from getting insider her dwelling and surroundings.  
    Rocks and a steel platform clogged the drainage outlet near the road, reason why soil and waters flowed along the road to houses below and vegetables farms.
    Through the years, water movements from the mountains crept underneath the soil complicated with waters that flowed over the surface of roads, residences and garden fields.
    Farmer and village leader Martin Bagcalang from Pide showed sections of his garden that eroded and threatened pig pens to sink.
Some seven meters from his once upon a time garden at road level already sank.   
    Bagcalang said there has to be intervention in preventing gardens and even dwellings from erosion or sinking.
    He suggested construction of retaining walls above and below the road apart from drainage canals including installation of drainage canals atop mountain.   
    It was in 1935 when a big landslide buried houses and a number of villagers here in Balugan.  The mountain slide practically buried the community live.  
    Johnny Domagos, now in his 70’s, was then a kid when a part of the mountain fell pointing at the very location from his house where houses a number of dwellings now.
    Another landslide during typhoon Ompong in 2018 happened near the mountain slope where the 1935 landslide happened 78 years ago.
    The Ompong landside buried rice fields.
    The 2018 landslide happened at night time, otherwise if it occurred at daytime, may have caught villagers who tended their rice fields, Domagos said.
    Hoping that there shall be no more landslides, he sighed.
    Along with Bagcalang, Domagos said concreting of portions of the area was needed.  
    Road construction could also make things complicated revealing how waters from the mountains get clogged sending water and debris flowing to the road side and getting down the other side of the road to houses and gardens.
    “I suggested that the drainage beside the road be made of a steel or open canal to allow cleaning when big rains come,” Martin Bagcalang said.
    That did not happen with a closed canal shaving been made instead. That debris from above makes waters and soil go down to the road instead.
    Rain and waste waters get inside our front yards and vegetable farms and pigpens, Bagcalang said, adding road project implementors should fix the  road canal.
    Bagcalang said it would have been better if the drainage was open so when it gets clogged the debris could be taken out. He said this was not the case so clogging happened during typhoon Egay’s fury.  
    Soil flowed to houses nearby flooding their frontage and flowing to their gardens and pig pens. 
    Resident John Yogawen wondered where waters were coming considering drainage canals were constructed.
    Geologist Kelvin Gaerlan from MGB who checked the area with other MGB staff said Balugan was prone to sinking since soil was made of sandstone resulting to water run-off and cracks.   
    Gaerlan recommended construction of slope retaining walls and drainage system.
 

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Nueva Vizcaya starts 911 hotline

By Victor Martin

BAYOMBONG, Nueva Vizcaya — Residents of Nueva Vizcaya can now access the 911 emergency hotline for urgent police, medical and fire assistance or whatever emergency they may encounter.
    Gov. Jose Gambito said the province’s access to 911 started Monday.
    The hotline’s call center, which is the first in Cagayan Valley, will be supervised by the provincial disaster risk reduction and management office.
    Gambito said the hotline would handle calls regarding police assistance, fire reports, road accidents, emergency medical assistance and search and rescue operations as well as domestic violence.    
    He said fraudulent, hoax or prank reports would be dealt with in accordance with the law.

 

 

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Lightning kills man, hurts 4 in Ilocos Norte

By Freddie Lazaro

CAMP JUAN, Ilocos Norte – One person died and four others were injured in a lightning strike in Barangay Nagpatpatan, Solsona, this province, on Sept. 18.
    Police identified the fatality as Bong Valera, a resident of Barangay Catangraran, Solsona.
    The injured, Melencio Juan, Vick Malaqui, Orlinio Tamayo, and Robert Balisacan, all residents of Barangay Nagpatpatan, were able to seek assistance while Valera was unconscious.
    Investigation said the victims were having a drinking session in an open nipa hut on when lightning struck.
    Responding residents rushed them to the hospital where Valera was declared dead due to electrocution secondary to lightning.  

 

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5 hurt, no major damage after Cagayan earthquake

TUGUEGARAO CITY -- Five people were injured after a magnitude 6.3 earthquake struck off the coast of Dalupiri Island in Cagayan province Tuesday evening, the Office of Civil Defense reported. 
    In a report released Wednesday, the OCD said all five injuries were the result of a collapsed wall in Calayan town.
    Three people suffered minor injuries, while two sustained brain trauma and head concussion. 
    The agency said there have been no reported deaths and evacuees following the quake. 
    “No major damage on infrastructures are reported as of reporting time,” it said. 
    The OCD said it continues to monitor and assess the situation, and has prepositioned assistance for the affected residents. 
    The earthquake was felt in Cagayan Valley, Ilocos region, Cordillera Administrative Region and Central Luzon.
    The Philippines is regularly rocked by quakes due to its location on the Pacific "Ring of Fire"—an arc of intense seismic activity. — Gaea Katreena Cabico

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‘Habagat’ leaves P1.8-M damage to agriculture, livestock in La Union

By Hilda Austria 

SAN FERNANDO CITY -- La Union province recorded over P1.8 million in damage to agriculture and livestock due to effects of the enhanced southwest monsoon or “habagat” as of Sept. 12, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).
    In a report issued on Wednesday, PDRRM officer Aureliano Rulloda III said the estimated total cost of damage to agriculture was PHP1.4 million and PHP471,600 in livestock and poultry.
    The damage to agriculture was mainly on rice crops covering 42.97 hectares of land in San Juan, Sudipen, Naguilian and Sto. Tomas towns.
    The destroyed rice crops were in their reproductive, vegetative and maturity stages.
    Rulloda said the substantial damage to rice crops was in Sudipen town at 30 hectares, while the losses amounted to P855,000.
    He said Bangar town recorded damage to livestock and poultry, which got drowned, carried away by flood or suffered from hypothermia.
    Meanwhile, Rulloda said 27 houses were damaged.
“Of which, 21 were partially damaged, and six were totally damaged houses,” he said.

Rulloda said 110 families or 411 individuals in 15 barangay in the towns of Naguilian, Caba and City of San Fernando were affected due to the weather disturbance.

“There were also reported landslides and soil erosion due to continuous rain in the towns of Aringay and Naguilian, but these were already cleared,” he added.

The provincial government and the local government units have provided relief assistance to the affected families.

The enhanced habagat was due to the three weather disturbances, namely typhoons Goring, Hanna and tropical depression Ineng, which hit the country from Aug. 24 to Sept. 6, causing heavy rains. -- PNA

 

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Boy saves girl, baby from burning house

_{By Gabriel L. Cardinoza}

YOUNG HERO -- Pangasinan Gov. Ramon Guico 3rd (left) poses with 14-year-old Leonard Sambrano (2nd from left) after commending him for saving a 5-month old baby girl and her 8-year-old sister from a raging fire in Mangatarem, Pangasinan last week. Also in photo are Mangatarem Councilor Harley Paragas and Torres Bugallon Barangay Captain Lou de Guzman (right). – Gabriel Cardinoza photo

LINGAYEN, Pangasinan -- _{Gov. Ramon Guico 3rd on Monday commended a 14-year-old boy for bravely saving a 5-month-old baby girl and her 8-year-old sister from a raging fire in Mangatarem town last week.
    During the regular flag-raising ceremony at the provincial Capitol here, Guico said what Leonard Sambrano did was "a good basis for people to gauge level of service that government officials can give their constituents."
    Sambrano was on his way to play with friends in Barangay Maravilla that afternoon when he noticed fire engulfing second floor of a house.
    Without hesitation, Sambrano entered the house and saw an infant sleeping and a girl playing with her mobile phone.
    He picked up the sleeping baby, held the girl’s arms and brought them out of the burning house.
    After handing the baby to a relative, Sambrano went to another burning house and helped a man pull his motorcycle to safety.
    Four houses, made mostly of light materials, were razed in the village that day.
No one was reported injured.
    The baby and her sister were left by their mother, Cerlyn Espiritu, to the care of an aunt because she had to take another child to the neighboring village for an anti-rabies shot.
    But the aunt, Marilyn Domaquita, had to go somewhere else so she left the two children to the care of a nephew.
    Sambrano said the fire grew big so fast that by the time firefighters arrived in their village, the houses could no longer be saved.}
 

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SM Baguio holds earth- quake drill in mall

By Josie Lyn Galario

SM City Baguio actively participated in the third quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) on Sept. 7.
The earthquake drill, participated by shoppers, tenants, and employees, took place during regular mall hours.
    Evacuation and rescue drill simulations were carried out to increase and strengthen the mall’s Emergency Response Team preparedness and coordination among tasked units.
    Working hand in hand, medical, search and rescue teams gave first aid treatment to a mock-up trauma victim at SM City Baguio around 2 p.m. 
    The drill demonstrated various crisis scenarios to raise public awareness about proper emergency response during and after such hazard.
    Employees and tenants were evacuated to the open spaces after the simulated earthquake drill.
    Aside from such drills, SM City Baguio also conducts annual refresher course for its employees, tenants, and affiliates on fire and earthquake preparedness.
    Topics like worst-case scenarios during fire and earthquake, evacuation routes, and first aid treatment were taken up to build contingency plans to meet the realities that an earthquake will present when it strikes.

 

 

 

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Ilocos Norte town placed under state of calamity

By Leilanie Adriano 

LAOAG CITY – The municipality of Solsona in Ilocos Norte was placed under a state of calamity on Monday due to severe flooding brought about by the southwest monsoon intensified by Typhoon Hanna for almost a week now.
    Solsona Vice Mayor Jonathan de Lara said the municipal council's approval a resolution declaring the municipality under a state of calamity was unanimous.
    “As of the moment, we have three isolated barangays which are heavily flooded from the town proper due to damaged access roads,” he said in an interview.
    Roads connecting barangays Nalasin, Lipay and Aguitap are not passable due to raging floodwaters that have not receded yet, he said.
    As of posting time, the estimated cost of damage has yet to be announced as several road networks and embankments were hit hard by severe landslides as light to moderate and heavy rainfall continued.
    The municipal government of Solsona and the Provincial Engineering and Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Council also conducted an on-site inspection on Monday to assess the current condition and plan future rehabilitation of the road that connects the isolated Nalasin and Lipay.
    The Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council urged all residents to stay vigilant as moderate with occasional heavy rains will still persist due to "habagat".
    On Monday afternoon, the weather bureau said a low pressure area was estimated 870 kilometers east of extreme Northern Luzon and the southwest monsoon continues to bring rains in this part of the country.
    Due to continuous monsoon rains, Ilocos Norte Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc also suspended classes in pre-school and elementary on Monday. -- PNA

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Fire razes house in Baguio; 15 homeless

By Aileen P. Refuerzo

BAGUIO CITY -- An unattended candle caused the fire incident that totally damaged a residential structure at Honeymoon-Holyghost Barangay 12:30 a.m. last Aug. 27 that displaced four families composed of 15 individuals. 
    According to a report submitted to Mayor Benjamin Magalong by punong barangay Romulo Wayway, the candle was lit as offering for the repose of the soul of the house patriarch who died the day before in a hospital.
    The candle may have toppled without the knowledge of the family and burned the table cloth starting the fire, the report said.
    The report said the fire spread while the house occupants were asleep. Luckily, a private car passing by the place noticed the blaze and sounded his horn that eventually roused them from sleep. 
    The mayor's staff member Executive Asst. II Victor Jimenez who was at the scene was among the first responders who facilitated the reporting to the Baguio City Fire Station and monitored the developments from the firefighting operations to the delivery of assistance to the victims under the guidance of the mayor.
    Through the initiatives of the Dept. of Social Welfare and Development Office, the Office of the City Social Welfare and Development Officer Unit 1 Office, Social Worker Mariette Mae Yapyap, barangay officials and the city mayor’s office, the victims were immediately provided relief assistance food packs, hygiene kit, family kit and sleeping kits.
    Financial and emergency shelter assistance will follow.
    Victor Jimenez said they have arranged the transfer of the remains of the family patriarch who died in a hospital a day before the fire incident to their hometown with the help of the Bureau of Fire Protection.
Mayor Magalong thanked response units from the Baguio Fire Station, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer, Baguio City Police Office, Baguio Water District, Benguet Electric Cooperative, Sunshine Volunteers and Baguio 911On Call, DSWD, OCSWDO and his personal assistants for managing the crisis. 

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