Bacolod city: The Bacolod City Council and the Negros Occidental Provincial Board have both declared a state of calamity in their respective areas following the widespread devastation caused by Typhoon Tino. This decision, made on Thursday afternoon, is aimed at accelerating relief and recovery efforts for the affected communities.
According to Philippines News Agency, Acting Vice Mayor Caesar Distrito emphasized that the declaration allows the city government to provide financial assistance to affected families. The city can now access the 30 percent quick response fund from the 5 percent calamity fund and trust fund, expediting aid distribution and recovery processes. Reports from the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office indicated that 7,895 families, or 27,401 individuals, were preemptively evacuated.
The Emergency Operations Center revealed that 266 houses were destroyed, and 2,028 were partially damaged as a result of storm surges, strong winds, and felled trees. In response, Mayor Greg Gasataya announced the implementation of a price freeze on basic necessities, stating, “We need to implement a price freeze, which is essential during a calamity. We also understand the situation of our barangays whose funds have been depleted.”
Department of Social Services and Development head Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga mentioned the city’s preparations for long-term support for displaced families. Meanwhile, at the provincial level, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson confirmed the Provincial Board’s approval of the recommendation to declare a state of calamity, focusing on central and southern Negros.
The latest data from Negros Occidental reported 44 fatalities, including 12 in La Castellana, and varying numbers in other cities and municipalities. Board Member Andrew Montelibano noted that the provincial board held a special session to pass the resolution, marking the second state of calamity declaration this year, following the one in July due to tropical cyclone Crising and an insect outbreak affecting sugarcane farms.
