Kristine leaves at least 52 dead in Batangas
BATANGAS, Philippines – Following extensive damage caused by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (Trami), the provincial government of Batangas has declared a state of calamity across the entire province.
In a phone interview, Vice Governor Mark Leviste confirmed that P79 million had been allocated from their Quick Response Fund and realigned budget to address the immediate needs of affected residents.
“At least two towns — Cuenca and Laurel — have already declared a state of calamity, prompting us to follow suit based on the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council,” Leviste said.
The allocated funds will provide food packs, financial aid, burial assistance, medicines, hygiene kits, water sanitation supplies, and other essential support to affected individuals and families.
As of writing, Kristine has left 52 casualties, 21 missing, and 18 injured in the entire province. Damage to agriculture and fisheries was estimated at P118 million, according to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO).
The provincial government is seeking assistance from the national government and private entities as it reiterates the dire need for clearing equipment and human resources.
“Kinukulang tayo ng backhoe for clearing operations, mga generator, light towers. Kailangan din ng human resources, although we have augmented a lot from OCD, PCG, PNP — mobilization talaga ang kinukulang. We are asking the help of private and other government entities para madama natin na hindi tayo nag-iisa,” said PDRRMO head Amor Calayan.
(We lack backhoes for clearing operations, as well as generators and light towers. We also need human resources, although we have augmented a lot from OCD, PCG, PNP — we really need more mobilization. We are asking the help of private and other government entities so we don’t feel we’re alone.)
She said their office was given enough warning during a pre-disaster analysis meeting with the Office of Civil Defense and weather experts prior to the arrival of Kristine, but the rains were just too intense.
“Sustained ang amount ng rain na marami. Ang expectation natin nasa 50-100mm in 24 hours, pero iba ang nangyari. Sustained na ang pag-ulan, ganoon din kalakas ang hangin,” she added.
(The large volume of rain was sustained. Our expectation was 50-100mm in 24 hours, but what happened was different. The rainfall was sustained, and so were the strong winds.)
Calayan said their priority is to reach areas that have been isolated due to damage, and to continue responding to the needs of those who were displaced through the provision of mobile clinics and mobile kitchens. – Rappler.com