Gandara LGU seeks assistance for 5,138 affected families due to floods

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

CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar  –  The local government unit of Gandara, Samar is seeking the assistance of other government agencies and well meaning organizations for their flood stricken constituents.

In a telephone interview by PIA, Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) Lydia Badiola said that the earlier reported families affected has risen to 5,138 from 580. As to number of barangays affected, whereas before there were only 11 barangays affected now there are 41 barangays (total is 69).

A total of 25, 496 persons have now been recorded as affected by the continuous rains.

On Monday, February 18, the Maharlika Highway (Gandara strip) was impassable because of the flooded road network from Barangay Sapinit of San Jorge to Barangay Ngoso in Gandara, added Badiola.

In fact, she said Mayor Antonieto Cabueños himself personally attended to the needs of the stranded passengers.

On the same day, prompted by the need, the Sangguniang Bayan of Gandara has declared the municipality in a state of calamity pursuant to a resolution sponsored by Hon. Jorge Ramirez SB Resolution 09-08 as presided by Vice Mayor Eufemo Oliva, in a special session.

While it is true that the LGU is seeking assistance, it is also on its own, preparing to distribute relief goods, said Badiola.

They have gathered some 50 bags of NFA rice, 15 boxes of sardines, and 30 boxes of instant noodles to be given to the affected Gandara folks.