By Nimfa Estrellado Quezon Gov. tan, along with Mayor Erwin Pastrana and disaster management authorities, convened a meeting in Lucena City ...
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| Quezon Gov. tan, along with Mayor Erwin Pastrana and disaster management authorities, convened a meeting in Lucena City on May 27, 2024, to coordinate relief operations for Mauban, Quezon. (Photo from Provincial Government of Quezon) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon – Governor Angelina "Doktora Helen" Tan of Quezon Province addressed the devastating impact of Typhoon Aghon, which made three landfalls in the province on May 26, 2024, causing widespread damage and displacement. The Provincial Government has been fully mobilized, working tirelessly to provide immediate relief and support to affected communities.
In an interview on the morning of May 27, 2024, Gov. Tan stated, "The typhoon's three landfalls were in Quezon Province: San Francisco, Sariaya, and Patnanungan." She added, "Communication has been difficult, and we are still collecting data as responders and local government units prioritize search and rescue operations."
Initial reports indicate that over 13,000 individuals and nearly 4,000 families have been affected in the province, with 146 barangays and 111 evacuation centers impacted in Lucena City. This data does not yet include figures from Lucena City, where the governor own residence of over 30 years was severely damaged, underscoring the personal connection she feels to the crisis.
"My own house, which has been a part of this community for over 30 years, was also severely damaged by the typhoon," Tan shared. "This tragedy has hit close to home for me, and I want to assure every resident that we are committed to a comprehensive recovery that focuses on rebuilding stronger, more resilient communities."
Lucena City experienced unprecedented flooding, with some areas submerged in up to 8 feet of water. The overflow of the Pill Way and nearby riverbanks, exacerbated by a prolonged dry season and inadequate drainage maintenance, caused significant damage to homes and infrastructure.
Mauban, a coastal town with numerous low-lying areas, also suffered from severe flooding. During her visit, Gov. Tan arrived to assess the damage and coordinate relief efforts with Mauban Mayor Erwin Pastrana and disaster management officials.
Over 200 families sought refuge in evacuation centers in Mauban, where they are now receiving hot meals, food packs, and basic supplies. The provincial government is preparing to offer financial assistance to help these households rebuild their lives.
The typhoon's impact has been far-reaching, with the entire town inundated and access to certain areas hampered by debris. Governor Tan stressed the urgency of conducting a rapid assessment of damaged homes and boats to determine the extent of the devastation and allocate necessary resources for recovery.
Patnanungan Island, the hardest-hit area, experienced extensive damage to homes but no reported casualties. The island required urgent relief efforts to provide shelter, food, and medical assistance to the displaced residents.
The Provincial Government is coordinating with national agencies to ensure all affected areas receive necessary assistance and resources. They are actively monitoring the situation across the province in collaboration with PDRRMO Quezon, while PSWDO Quezon prepares relief supplies for distribution.
"We are deeply grateful for the support and assistance from Senator Gatchalian and other partners in securing additional resources for our relief operations," Tan said. "We are also working closely with the PNP, AFP, BFP, Philippine Red Cross, and other organizations to conduct comprehensive relief operations throughout Quezon."
The Quezon Convention Center is now serving as a temporary evacuation center, providing shelter and essential services to displaced families from Brgy. Cotta and Brgy. 10 of Lucena City.
Gov. Tan reassured residents that recovery efforts will be ongoing and comprehensive, focusing on rebuilding stronger and more resilient communities. She emphasized the need for basic necessities such as food, water, and medical assistance, and urged everyone to come together during this difficult time.
While casualties are still being validated, the Governor acknowledged the reports in San Antonio and Lucena City, emphasizing the need for joint data validation by relevant agencies to confirm whether they are typhoon-related.
Despite the challenges, the Maharlika Highway from Real to General Nakar remains passable, with alternative routes available in Mauban and Sampaloc. Efforts are also underway to restore electricity in affected areas.
Gov. Tan remains steadfast in her commitment to the recovery and rebuilding of Quezon Province following the devastation of Typhoon Aghon. She is working closely with all stakeholders to overcome the challenges posed by the typhoon and ensure the province's swift recovery.
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