Despite heavy rains brought by Tropical Storm Bebinca that was locally named Ferdie this evening and the unrest of Mt. Kanlaon, the local government of Himamaylan has been proactively preparing for emergencies.
Mayor Raymund Tongson again convened the members of the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council to assess the ongoing rollout of typhoon response in Himamaylan this morning, Sept. 13.
“The LGU, through our DRRM Council and the City Social Welfare and Development Office, already prepositioned food packs for disaster-prone areas and barangays,” Tongson said.
He added that the Council has been actively calling on Himamaylanons in disaster-prone areas to prepare for evacuation.
Tongson said residents are constantly reminded to immediately report incidents and accidents due to slippery roads, storm surges, landslides, rising river waters, and others.
“We are overwhelmed by the cooperation of our barangays, residents, and peoples’ organizations. I hope that we can overcome the aftermath (of the weather disturbance) with minimal damage to property and no lives lost,” he stressed in a press release.
The DRRM Council meeting also discussed the plans of the city in case of Mt. Kanlaon eruption.
While Himamaylan is not part of the four-kilometer permanent danger zone, the local government is still preparing in case it needs to extend support to neighboring towns and cities surrounding Mount Kanlaon.
During the phreatic eruption of Kanlaon in June, Himamaylan City extended support by sending potable water and relief goods to La Castellana town, that was severely affected by the ensuing mudflow.
“We must all remain vigilant with whatever natural or man-made disaster that may arise in our city and province. I urge everyone to be proactive and always stay updated from reliable sources, such us our official social media pages and trusted media partners,” Tongson added. ||
