By Nimfa Estrellado Philippine Army transporting residents to safety amidst the devastating floods brought on by severe Tropical Storm Krist...
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| Philippine Army transporting residents to safety amidst the devastating floods brought on by severe Tropical Storm Kristine in Quezon province. (Photo from LGU Lopez) |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon - Severe Tropical Storm Kristine has left a trail of destruction across Quezon province. Intense rainfall triggered widespread flooding, rendering the Maharlika Highway, a critical artery to the Bicol region, impassable. Thousands of residents were forced to evacuate their homes as floodwaters engulfed towns and villages.
Motorists were stranded on the inundated highway, facing rising waters and dwindling supplies. Some reported being unable to access food or clean water, and anxieties were high about the potential for further rainfall. Commuters endured hours trapped in their vehicles, while families' vacation plans were shattered. The flooding has caused significant disruption and financial hardship for many.
Despite the dire circumstances, residents demonstrated remarkable resilience. Makeshift boats ferried people across flooded areas, and individuals braved treacherous conditions to assist those in need. Stories of selflessness and courage emerged, such as local residents forming volunteer rescue brigades and sharing what little food and resources they had.
Authorities are investigating two fatalities to determine if they are linked to the storm. A woman tragically fell from a bridge in Tagkawayan, and a man was killed by a falling tree in Mauban. Search and rescue operations are ongoing in several areas to ensure no one is left stranded or unaccounted for.
Nine towns, including Lopez, Calauag, and Catanauan, experienced severe flooding. In Catanauan, floodwaters reached waist-high levels, stranding residents like Rosalinda Enopiquiz and her family, who were unable to return to their home in Buenavista.
Over 9,000 families, nearly 30,000 individuals, sought refuge in evacuation centers across the province. Tagkawayan has been placed under a state of calamity. Governor Angelina Tan confirmed that a section of the Maharlika Highway in Barangay Canda, Lopez, was impassable.
"The provincial government and Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office staff are working tirelessly to provide relief to our affected citizens. Over 20,000 food packs have been distributed," Governor Tan stated. She also appealed for donations of essential items such as clean drinking water, blankets, and hygiene products.
In Mulanay, floodwaters exceeded five feet in some areas, but proactive evacuations prevented casualties. Landslides isolated Barangay San Pedro, hindering access for emergency responders and aid workers.
Tagkawayan suffered extensive damage to agriculture and fisheries, estimated at Php160 million. Hundreds of vehicles traveling towards the Bicol Region were stranded.
Flooding receded in some areas, but intensified in others before subsiding on October 25. Lucena City and surrounding towns also experienced flooding.
Governor Tan declared a state of calamity for the entire province to facilitate recovery efforts and access national government assistance.
An alternative route for Bicol-bound traffic was opened through Buenavista, Ginyangan, and Calauag. Authorities are working to establish alternative routes for those stranded and heading towards Metro Manila or Lucena City.
As of October 25, 2024, Severe Tropical Storm Kristine has weakened but continues to bring heavy rains and strong winds to parts of Luzon. The threat of flooding and landslides remains. Residents are urged to exercise caution.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has mobilized resources and personnel to support the affected communities, and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is working to clear roads and repair damaged infrastructure.
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