BARMM shifts into emergency mode as floods force nearly 1,000 families from their homes

COTABATO CITY (July 10) — With flash floods sweeping through low-lying communities across the Bangsamoro region, the BARMM government has shifted into emergency mode, ordering governors and mayors to lead disaster response efforts while the regional government prepares to send reinforcements where needed.

During an emergency Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Bangsamoro interim Chief Minister Abdulraof Macacua called on local chief executives to take the frontline role in protecting residents affected by days of heavy rainfall.

“Local governments are expected to be the first responders during emergencies,” Macacua said, assuring them that the Bangsamoro government stands ready to augment local operations whenever additional manpower and resources are needed.

The Bangsamoro Rapid Emergency Action on Disaster Incidence (READi) reported that nearly 1,000 families have already been evacuated after floodwaters submerged communities in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte; Guindulungan, Talayan, Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Ampatuan, and Datu Hoffer Ampatuan in Maguindanao del Sur; and Bongao, Tawi-Tawi.

Evacuation centers, including municipal gymnasiums, covered courts, and barangay halls, have become temporary shelters for displaced families waiting for floodwaters to recede.

The heavy rains have also disrupted mobility across parts of the region, with major roads in Datu Odin Sinsuat, Guindulungan, and Talayan rendered impassable by flooding and storm-related damage, complicating the delivery of relief and emergency services.

To ensure immediate assistance reaches affected communities, the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) has pre-positioned food packs and hygiene kits in strategic locations for rapid distribution.

The emergency meeting underscored the Bangsamoro government’s push for a coordinated response, with regional agencies working alongside local governments to speed up rescue operations, provide humanitarian assistance, and monitor areas still at risk as rains continue.

For many families now sheltering in evacuation centers, the priority remains immediate relief and a safe return home once floodwaters subside, while authorities remain on alert for further weather disturbances.