ZAMBOANGA CITY – This city’s 98 Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (BDRRMCs) have been placed on alert to brace for possible effects of inclement weather conditions.
This came as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said in its forecast Wednesday that cloudy skies with scattered rain showers and thunderstorms will prevail over Zamboanga Peninsula and the provinces of Basilan, Sulu, and Tawi-Tawi due to a low-pressure area (LPA).
PAGASA said flash floods or landslides may occur due to moderate to at times heavy rains.
Dr. Elmeir Jade Apolinario, city disaster risk reduction and management office chief, said all BDRRMCs were ordered to monitor their respective areas of responsibility for possible hazards brought by the LPA.
Apolinario also advised the public, particularly those living in low-lying areas, riverbanks, and coastal areas, to take precautionary measures to protect lives and properties.
“If the BDRRMC members tell you to evacuate, kindly comply immediately. Do not contradict them because it is for your own good,” Apolinario said.
On Sunday, at least 10 houses were destroyed by heavy downpours and strong winds in Tumalutab, an island village 30 kilometers east of the city proper.
On Dec. 25 last year, a person died while 748 families in 10 villages here were affected by flooding spawned by inclement weather.
Meanwhile, Apolinario said the construction of the fifth evacuation center located in Barangay Pasonanca here is nearing completion.
Apolinario said the city government will be constructing 12 evacuation centers until 2025 across the city. (PNA)
