Laua-an: The municipality of Laua-an has been declared under a state of calamity during a special session held by the municipal council due to the damage caused by Severe Tropical Storm Opong, internationally known as Bualoi. Mayor Aser Baladjay announced the decision in an interview, stating that the council convened on September 28 to enable the use of the town’s PHP12 million calamity fund to aid affected residents.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Baladjay reported that 2,101 families, amounting to 8,271 individuals, were impacted by the storm. The municipality has already distributed relief goods valued at PHP1 million from the calamity fund to assist these families. Furthermore, the Municipal Agriculture Office estimated losses of PHP15 million in rice and sugar lands, affecting about 30 hectares across both lowland and upland regions.
Approximately 20 houses along the Paliwan River and three other rivers experienced partial or total damage. Baladjay emphasized the plan to relocate families from damaged homes to safer areas within their barangays. He has also sought assistance from the National Housing Authority and the Department of Social Welfare and Development.
The Antique Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is also appealing for national government support, as its PHP34 million calamity fund may be insufficient for the province’s needs. Governor Paolo Everardo Javier cited that 48,203 families, or 164,267 individuals, across 18 municipalities could be affected should the province declare a state of calamity. Additionally, there were reports of 593 damaged houses, along with necessary repairs for the Bacalan Bridge in Sebaste town and a flood control project in Camancijan, Culasi.
Governor Javier expressed hopes for cooperation from the Department of Public Works and Highways and other agencies to aid in recovery efforts, especially with more typhoons anticipated before the year concludes.