In Northern Samar
TACLOBAN CITY — The declaration of state of calamity by the provincial government of Northern Samar following the devastating impact of Super Typhoon Uwan on November 9 was aimed at helping affected municipalities recover more efficiently.
Rei Josiah Echano, provincial disaster risk reduction and management officer, said many local governments in the province have nearly depleted their disaster funds, making additional support crucial for restoring shelter, livelihoods, and agricultural activities.
The provincial board approved the declaration on November 14, following the recommendation of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) chaired by Governor Harris Ongchuan.
“The successive tropical cyclones that have impacted the province, including the recent monstrous Super Typhoon Uwan, necessitate a state of calamity so we can focus on early recovery with the needed resources,” Echano said in an online interview.
Under the declaration, 30 percent of the province’s P150-million calamity fund will be allocated as quick response funds to assist municipalities in rebuilding and relief operations.
Typhoon Uwan affected 90,424 families, or 338,197 individuals, in Northern Samar coming from all the 24 towns of the province, including its provincial capital of Catarman.
Of these, 49,327 families, or 172,079 people, were evacuated to various temporary shelters. The storm damaged 22,306 houses partially and destroyed 658 completely.
The state of calamity will allow local governments to implement emergency measures, expedite procurement of goods and services, and mobilize resources to speed up recovery.
(JOEY A. GABIETA)
