The municipality of Baco in Oriental Mindoro has declared a state of calamity due to severe flooding caused by tropical depression “Romina.”

The Sangguniang Bayan formalized the declaration through Resolution No. 290-2024.

It will enable the local government to access emergency funds and resources to expedite recovery and rehabilitation efforts. 

The move will also fast-track measures to prevent further damage and ensure the safety of residents.

Mayor Allan Roldan said in an interview aired on Facebook that all almost barangays have been affected and people have failed to report for work due to flooding. 

Roldan said the local government has released funds and concerned government agencies have provided assistance to affected residents.

He appealed for additional assistance from the national government, provincial government, and non-government organizations as the local government alone cannot totally provide for all their needs.

Local government officials are going around the town to determine the needs of residents.

Around 4,300 families or 20,000 persons have been displaced in Baco, reports said.

Reports added that Naujan, Calapan City, and Victoria, Oriental were also flooded.

Water level in major rivers in several towns in the province are approaching or on critical level, reports said.

The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is on blue alert and ready to assist residents. They have been on heightened monitoring since Dec. 21.   

Photos and videos online showed massive flooding in Baco, with people moving around in motor bancas and wading through knee-high waters.

In July, Baco was also placed under state of calamity due to the effects of tropical cyclone “Carina.”