Heavy rains cause flooding, isolation, lack of fuel in Eastern Samar

By NINFA B. QUIRANTE (PIA Samar)
February 20, 2008

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar  –  If the road network in Buray-Taft Road and the Makabot Bridge approach in Gen. MacArthur is not repaired immediately, Borongan City will be running out of supply of diesel, gasoline and other fuel.

This writer experienced the same when the jeepney she was on tried three gasoline stations in Borongan City before proceeding to its route to Gen. Macarthur.

Public Utility Jeepney (PUJ) Lucille Blue had to try Petron and Shell both in Borongan City only to be told, “no more diesel” it ended up in Caltex with the fuel. The gasoline boy said that their supply would just last a day, considering the requirement.

The tanker supposed to deliver the needed fuel supply had been sorely missed for some time because of the damages in the road network.

The Buray-Taft road remains impassable because of a collapsed pavement in San Isidro, Paranas and floodings in the highway of Taft Barangays parallel to the Taft-Bagacay River. Adding to the damaged roads and floods are the numerous land and rockslides that render some roads impassable.

Meanwhile, in the South coastal road (leading to Tacloban City), roadslips have also been observed. In Barangay Loro, Giporlos where a massive landslide covered the highway, Mayor Mateo Biong has reportedly sent his men to clear the debris with the LGU’s heavy equipment. The writer personally witnessed the clearing activity being done by the pay loader.

Other areas are not as concerned as Giporlos.

Operators of PUJs and PUBs are concerned that if the gas stations in Eastern Samar don’t get their regular supply of fuel, their operation would stop and the riding public will suffer.

Residents of Gen. MacArthur hold on to the promise of one Engr. Padit who reportedly promised them immediate repair of the Makabot Bridge approach.