The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has placed on standby a 20-man urban search and rescue team in anticipation of flooding and other disasters that may hit the National Capital Region (NCR) as super typhoon “Mawar” has started inching closer to the Philippine area of responsibility.
MMDA chairperson Don Artes said the rescuers who would be deployed are all well-trained on disaster response and are equipped with life vests, wet suits, boats, water rescue helmets rescue cans, throw ropes, and life buoys to aid in rescuing victims on the water.
photo: MMDA
“We have already identified critical areas in coordination with the Metro Manila local government units for the possible mobilization of personnel and assets in case of flooding,” said Artes.
"Teams are prepared, equipped, and trained. Communication lines are open with the LGUs so that teams will be immediately dispatched if needed," he added.
While weather experts said “Mawar”, which would be named “Betty” once it entered the country’s territory possibly on Friday, May 26, will not have direct effect in any part of the country but said it could trigger bad weather condition that includes heavy rains in Metro Manila.
photo: MMDA
Metro Manila areas that are prone to flooding include Marikina, Pasig City some parts of Quezon City and and some parts of Camanava (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela).
Artes said they will also deploy rubber boats, aluminum boats, fiberglass boats, life vests, rescue vehicles, and military trucks. All boats have life vests in accordance with its passenger capacities.
On Thursday, March 25, Artes presided the meeting of the disaster response managers and units in Metro Manila to map out plans in addressing possible adverse effects of the weather disturbance in Metro Manila.
The discussion focused on addressing the potential impacts of water disturbances in Metro Manila and ensuring an effective response is in place.