MATI, DAVAO ORIENTAL (January 20)— The provincial government here convened the members of the Provincial Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) Sunday noon for a Pre-Disaster Risk Assessment (PDRA) as the Low-Pressure Area (LPA) has entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility midday Sunday.
PDRRMC Chairman Governor Nelson Dayanghirang has raised a “blue alert status” which means a 24/7 weather disturbance monitoring by members of the Disaster Preparedness and Disaster Response Clusters at the Emergency Operation Center (EOC).
The LPA is expected to bring moderate to heavy rains in some parts of Davao Oriental, a yellow warning level has been hoisted over the province. Based on a memorandum issued from the DILG, likely to be affected are rivers and tributaries particularly in Cateel; Dapnan, Baganga; Mahan-ub, Manorigao, Caraga; Casauman, Qunionoan, Bagwan, Mayo, Bitanatan, Sumlog, Tangmoan, Manay, Maya and Sumlao/Cuabo.Meanwhile, as the PAGASA has issued gale warning, sea trips will be cancelled.
Troops were also deployed to the warehouses of the National Food Authority to ensure that stored goods are secured and available in case of emergency. Also, a team has also been deployed to closely monitor the water level at the Aragon Dam in Cateel town.
The public is advised to cancel marine activities. Fishing boats and other small sea crafts are advised not to venture out into the sea while larger sea vessels are alerted against big waves.
The PDRRMC advises people living near the mountains and slopes and in low-lying areas to be alert for possible flashfloods and landslides.
All municipalities, especially the coastal areas have been advised to activate Incident Command System (ICS) to efficiently implement necessary measures if necessary.
During the meeting, which was presided by Vice Governor Niño Sotero Uy, the council discussed the possible effects and preparation measures for the looming LPA which may develop into a Tropical Depression as advised by the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services (PAGASA).
The prepositioning of food packs in all operations center was given importance..
PDRRMO Assistant Head Francis Jason Bendulo said they have been coordinating with private contractors whose assistance may possibly be tapped in the clearing roads in the event of landslides, augmenting the already deployed and prepositioned heavy equipment from the Provincial Engineering Office and the Department of Public Works and Highways.
The communication systems are up and running to efficiently coordinate interventions and response with all municipal DRRMOs and other response teams.
Troops from the Philippine Army, Philippine National Police, as well as rescue teams from the Bureau of Fire Protection are also on standby ready to respond, especially in flood and landslide prone areas. Also, on standby at the Operation Center are members of the Incident Management Team and Rapid Deployment Team.
Residents, especially those living in areas at high risk of flooding and landslides were advised to monitor for updates, take precautionary measures, and coordinate with Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs) in case of evacuations. –Karen Lou Deloso (DavOr PIO)
