The Low Pressure Area and Tail End of Frontal System experienced from 11 to 12 January 2020 have brought heavy rainfall in the whole province of Dinagat Islands. These weather systems have significantly affected the province in terms of access to lifelines. There are twenty (20) major landslides along national/local roads causing several road sections to be impassable. In addition, soil erosions along mountainous areas occurred. Severe flooding along low-lying areas was also experienced.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council led by Governor Kaka Bag-ao as Chairperson mobilized the Provincial Government and its offices in assisting affected communities.
As of the moment, Paragua Road of Libjo and Tubajon and Basilisa are now passable. Clearing operations are still ongoing in road sections of Barangays Jacquez, Matingbe and Don Ruben in San Jose.
Forty (40) inbound stranded passengers are now being fetched by their respective LGUs after awaiting efforts the road along Basilisa to become passable to all types of vehicles. The Provincial Emergency Operations Center has ensured that said stranded passengers are provided with food and special needs.
Clearing operations are jointly facilitated by the Municipal Local Government Units with the Provincial Government in collaboration with private construction companies in areas affected, with the complementation of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Rapid Damage Assessments and Needs Analysis (RDANAs) are simultaneously conducted by all MLGUs with the support of the Provincial Government. Further, the Provincial EOC has accounted 558 families or 1,386 individuals in the evacuation centers provincewide.
Fair weather condition is observed now in the province, however soils are still saturated and high risk areas are still regulated for engagement. The Provincial DRRM Council still enjoins everyone to refrain from passing through critical road sections as some steep slopes are still moving. Prior to demobilization of evacuees, all local DRRMCs are advised to initiate home area safety assessments.
Amidst these challenges under harsh weather conditions, we posted ZERO CASUALTIES. With this, the Governor Kaka Bag-ao and the Provincial Government of Dinagat Islands acknowledges the efforts of all DRRMCs, national line response agencies, law enforcement and public health and safety workers, volunteer responders, private entities, and most of all, our communities for adhering the precautionary measures implemented for the safety of the general population.