EARTH OPENS UP – Extensive ground cracks in a barangay in Valderrama, Antique has prompted the evacuation of than 200 residents. (Valderrama LGU)
“They are all taken care of. But we have to make sure they won’t go back in the area,” said Antique Gov. Rhodora “Dodod” Cadiao.
The Antique Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) received reports that the landmass displacement occurred since Thursday, June 10. As of Friday, June 11, the cracks were estimated to have been around 250 meters.
The land displacement happened days after a June 7 Intensity 4 earthquake.
According to Valderrama Mayor Mary Joyce Roquero, eight houses were totally damaged while nine other houses were partially damaged. The barangay hall and chapel of Igmasandig were also damaged.
Roquero expressed concerned that the rainy weather may loosen the soil and worsen the situation and become a risk for more residents.
Cadiao assured that the Antique provincial government is looking for an area where displaced residents can be permanently relocated.