TACLOBAN CITY – Persistent rains brought by a low-pressure area (LPA) prompted several local government units (LGUs) across Eastern Visayas to suspend classes and government work, while some areas reported flooding.
In Northern Samar, Governor Edwin Ongchuan issued an executive order halting classes and government office work to ensure public safety. Similar directives were made in Biliran, particularly in the provincial capital Naval and the town of Kawayan.
Naval Mayor Gretchen Espina reported flooding in Barangays Sabang and Larrazabal and urged residents in other flood-prone and coastal villages—including Lucsoon, Anislag, Borac, Libtong, Sto. Niño, Rosario, and Agpangi—to stay vigilant. Governor Rogelio Espina also directed LGUs to enforce pre-emptive evacuation if necessary to avoid casualties.
In Leyte, heavy rains caused the Tibgaoto River in Villaba to overflow, leading to flooding that drowned two cows.
Meanwhile, in Samar province, the city of Catbalogan and the town of Motiong also suspended classes and work due to the bad weather.
The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Eastern Visayas has urged LGUs to closely monitor rainfall and remain on alert for possible flooding and landslides in vulnerable areas.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
