DAVAO CITY — Misamis Occidental Governor Henry Oaminal convened an emergency meeting with provincial disaster management and local government officials on Sunday evening to prepare for the forecasted heavy rainfall that could trigger flash floods across the province.
During the meeting, Governor Oaminal announced plans to issue an executive order to formally establish an Incident Command Center (ICC) and an Accident Command Center to coordinate disaster response efforts.
“We are doing all these to avert the impact of the possible flash floods or heavy rainfall brought about by the weather disturbance,” he emphasized.
Emergency Power Supply and Evacuation Preparedness
The governor also instructed the Misamis Occidental Electric Cooperative (MOELCI) to ensure emergency power supply, particularly in evacuation centers and critical facilities.
A MOELCI representative confirmed their readiness, stating, “All we need is to determine the site so we can prepare for our contingency.”
Oaminal directed the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) to prepare emergency supplies, including ready-to-eat food, drinking water, cookware, medicines, and even firewood. “We learned our lessons from the past.
Buy all necessary food provisions,” he emphasized, as the provincial government prepared relief goods for up to 10,000 people.
He also instructed the provincial government to coordinate with the local water district to ensure an adequate supply of water. “Advise the water district to prepare water as the forecasted heavy rainfall and flash floods approach Misamis Occidental,” he added.
Rising Water Levels Prompt Evacuations
Earlier, more than 300 individuals were evacuated in Oroquieta City as the Layawan River overflowed due to continuous rains.
Oroquieta City Mayor Lemuel Acosta explained that heavy rainfall in the hinterlands caused water levels to rise rapidly, prompting local authorities to direct residents to evacuation centers.
The Philippine Emergency Alerts issued a weather advisory at 6:00 p.m. Sunday, warning of light to heavy rains over parts of the country, including Mindanao and the Zamboanga Peninsula, due to the Shear Line and the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Residents in affected areas were advised to prepare for potential flooding and landslides.
“Be alert, be vigilant!” the advisory urged.
Governor’s Call for Unity
As the meeting concluded at 7:15 p.m., the Governor reassured residents of Misamis Occidental that the provincial government is fully prepared to respond to the situation. “There is no reason for us not to immediately respond. We have to work together,” he said.
The provincial government remains on high alert, emphasizing preparedness and quick response to ensure the safety and welfare of all residents.
Edith Z Caduaya studied Bachelor of Science in Development Communication at the University of Southern Mindanao.
The chairperson of Mindanao Independent Press Council (MIPC) Inc.
