By Freddie Lazaro
LAOAG CITY, Ilocos Norte — A state of calamity has been declared in the provinces of Isabela and Ilocos Norte following President Duterte’s visit last Sunday to assess the damage wrought by typhoon “Ompong.”
(photo courtesy of Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte Facebook page / MANILA BULLETIN)
In Ilocos Norte, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan issued Resolution No. 2018-09-265, declaring the province under a state of calamity due to the heavy damage caused by Ompong.
As of 8 a.m. on Monday, the Ilocos Norte Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) recorded P3 billion worth of losses in agriculture as well as damage to infrastructure.
In Isabela province, Governor Bodjie Dy said the declaration of state of calamity is anchored on at least P3.5 billion in damage to infrastructure and its agriculture sector.
In a press briefing before President Duterte met with local officials in Ilocos Norte, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the national government has P15 billion standby calamity fund intended assistance for the disaster’s victims.
Later, Governor Imee Marcos was able to air her concerns before the President and his Cabinet officials, especially in addressing the needs of Ilocanos in the aftermath of the monster typhoon.
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