• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
The Municipal Government of La Castellana in Negros Occidental paid tribute to residents who lost their lives during Typhoon Tino during the annual Christmas Switch-On Ceremony, dubbed “Arangkasanag: Paglaum Kag Paghiliugyon,” held in front of the municipal hall on December 19.
As one of the towns hardly hit by Typhoon Tino, La Castellana continues to recover from the devastation and heartbreak brought by the storm.
The ceremony featured the symbolic release of white balloons into the sky, representing remembrance and hope. Each balloon was dedicated to a life lost during the typhoon.
Prior to the main event, a united prayer led by pastors from various denominations was offered to honor the lives of those who perished and the missing. Twenty-seven families convened at La Castellana’s main river, participated in a candle-lighting ceremony, and offered prayers for their loved ones.
“Despite all the challenges, I urge our residents to come together in prayer so that we can overcome these difficulties as one La Castellana. Let us be strong. This Switch-On Ceremony symbolizes our hope and strength. Rest assured, you are not alone. We are here for you,” Mayor Anejo Nicor said in his remarks.
According to the records of the LGU, 13 lives were confirmed lost, while 14 remain missing.
STILL WAITING FOR P10M AID
The P10 million extended financial assistance from the Office of the President (OP) given to La Castellana due to the onslaught of Typhoon Tino is still being processed.
Vice Mayor Alme Rhummyla Nicor-Mangilimutan said that the LGU is urging the OP to fast-track the processing of the documents because severely affected families are waiting to be relocated.
The delays in the funds were due to some of the required signatures, including that of the former Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, who resigned on November 17.
“We are still waiting for the signed documents from Malacañang. These were all supported by the Office of the President, but we will go with the process because there were no special processes on how to disburse the funds,” Mangilimutan stressed, citing that “although we are doing all that we can, we cannot control everything.”
The municipal government is already set to purchase 8.3 hectares of land in Barangay Robles to relocate more than 300 families, with each being allocated up to six square meters.
The owner of the land approved a staggered mode of payment from the LGU. However, the total cost of the land is still under assessment.*
