In an emergency session held earlier today, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Ilocos Norte, through Provincial Resolution No. 341-2024, declared a state of calamity over the province in response to the devastating impact of Super Typhoon “Julian,” internationally known as “Krathon.”
As of 11:00 a.m. today, the municipalities of Burgos, Bangui, Dumalneg, Pagudpud, Vintar, Adams, Pasuquin, and Bacarra remain under Signal No. 2, while the rest of the province remains under Signal No. 1. Additionally, the province is still under an orange rainfall warning according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).
Due to the torrential rainfall, wide-scale flooding, destroyed bridges and roads, and power and communication interruptions have been reported throughout the province. As of today, damages to crops are estimated at more than Php 85,000,000.00, losses in livestock and poultry are valued at Php 385,000.00, and assessments of infrastructure damages are ongoing.
Two (2) casualties have been reported—one (1) in Batac City and one (1) in Laoag City—and one (1) person is reported missing in Paoay.
The declaration of the state of calamity enables the provincial government to mobilize resources swiftly and efficiently to assist affected residents through the utilization of its Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund.
Governor Matthew Marcos Manotoc urges residents to remain vigilant and heed safety advisories as PAGASA forecasts that “Julian” will re-enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility on October 2.
Furthermore, the Provincial Government reminds the Ilokano community to cooperate with government directives and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety during this critical time.
The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN), through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office and the PDRRMO, has already launched ongoing relief operations in the hardest-hit municipalities. (Mariell J. Pahinag, PGIN-CMO)