• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
In anticipation of possible flooding and landslides due to the Low Pressure Area embedded along the Intertropical Convergence Zone, which has triggered continuous rains, Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson yesterday placed the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management and Emergency Operations Center under Blue Alert Status.
PDRRMC chair Lacson also ordered the conduct of pre-emptive evacuations, if necessary.
Heavy rains and flooding in northern Negros also prompted local government units of San Carlos City, Calatrava and EB Magalona to suspend classes in all levels today.
Classes were also suspended yesterday in Pulupandan.
While he ordered the suspension of classes in all levels, in public and private schools of EB Magalona, Mayor Marvin Malacon, however said that work in government offices will continue.
Mayor Renato Gustilo also extended the suspension of classes due to the impacts of localized thunderstorms that brought heavy rains and caused urban flooding in San Carlos City.
Contrary to reports, Gustilo clarified that there was no landslide in Sitio Lower Caticlan, Brgy. Rizal, San Carlos City, but only small rocks that were loosened and washed away by rain water, into the road.
He added that the two-lane road is now passable after being cleared of debris.
Gustilo also said that work in City hall offices will continue to ensure the delivery of basic services.
Meanwhile, two families were evacuated from Barangay Rizal in San Carlos City.
The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council in Western Visayas also issued an advisory of the possible rising of water levels in the major rivers and tributaries of Malogo, Sicaba, Grande, Himogaan, Danao Upper Tabanan, Sipalay and Lower Ilog.*
