MMDA deploys 39-man disaster response team to Abra

A 39-man team from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will be deployed in earthquake-hit areas in Abra to assist in road-clearing operations and other disaster responses.

MMDA Officer-in-Charge Baltazar Melgar said the first team consisting of 11 people is already on its way to Abra as of Wednesday afternoon.

A town in Abra is the epicenter of the earthquake which measured 7.0 in magnitude at the Richter Scale.

"The second team composed of 28 personnel will be leaving tomorrow morning to take part in clearing operations. We will exert our efforts by mobilizing our personnel and other resources to provide immediate assistance to the quake’s victims,” said Melgar.

Melgar said the deployment of MMDA personnel was in response to the request of Abra Governor Dominic Valera.

He said they will also dispatch two rapid response vehicles, one ambulance, two generator sets, 15 modular tents, 10 portable water purifiers, and two portable jack hammers.

"The MMDA contingent will stay in Abra for an unspecified number of days, as needed," said Melgar.