By LIZA JOCSON
ZAMBOANGA CITY – Over 1,000 families have evacuated due to heavy monsoon rains which pummeled this city since Friday night, July 12.
RESCUE teams from the City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office conduct rescue operations in Barangay San Jose Gusu, Zamboanga City. (City Hall PIO)
Among affected barangays were San Jose Gusu, Talisayan, San Roque, Ayala, Baliwasan, Tumaga, Pasonanca, Tetuan, and Sangali.
Profiling and needs assessment are being conducted to determine the number of families affected.
The City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office activated its Emergency Operation Center on Friday night as it launched rescue operations together with the Philippine Coast Guard, Bureau of Fire Protection, police and military units, and volunteer groups in flooded barangays.
The City Social Welfare and Development Office initially provided food packs, sleeping, and hygiene kits to families staying at different evacuation centers.
Mayor John Dalipe and House Majority Leader and Zamboanga City Rep. Mannix Dalipe visited evacuation centers to provide hot meals and food packs to flood victims.
Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils have established community kitchens in affected areas.
Offices and agencies of local and national governments are in close coordination to continuously monitor affected communities for continuous rescue operations and relief efforts.
Mayor Dalipe advised the public to remain alert and vigilant as inclement weather continues here.