ZAMBOANGA CITY – Nearly 2,000 families here were affected by flood and heavy rain from the southwest monsoon or “habagat” over the weekend.
FAMILIES flee on board rubber boats after heavy rain flooded several areas in Zamboanga City. (City Hall PIO)
City Social Welfare and Development Office records said that 1,980 families composed of 8,148 individuals sought refuge in evacuation centers in several barangays due to rising floodwater that started on September 13.
A two-year old girl from coastal Barangay Taluksangay on the east coast was killed when their house collapsed due to heavy rains.
A total of 19 houses on stilts at the Ayudahan Badjao village in Barangay Maasin were damaged due to a storm surge.
A vessel was grounded in seas off RT Lim Boulevard due to huge waves.
Mayor John Dalipe here mobilized rescue and relief resources for affected families.
As of Monday, September 16, the evacuation center in Barangay Maasin remains open with 18 families staying.
Dalipe has ordered concerned offices and barangay disaster and emergency councils to remain alert amid the celebration of Maulidin Nabi on Monday, a Muslim holiday, due to the weather.