Governor Oaminal takes swift action to strengthen disaster preparedness amid forecasted heavy rainfall, flash floods in Misamis Occidental

 

OROQUIETA CITY, Misamis Occidental — In response to forecasted heavy rainfall and the risk of flash floods in parts of the province, Governor Henry S. Oaminal convened an emergency meeting of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) to enhance preparedness and ensure the safety of residents.

The urgent meeting, held at the SP Session Hall in the Capitol Building, was called in reaction to reports of heavy rainfall and the increasing risk of flooding in various areas of Misamis Occidental.

Governor Oaminal shared real-time updates on the condition of highways and river systems, which have been severely impacted by intense downpours. “I called this meeting after assessing the condition of our roads and rivers, which have been significantly affected by this morning's rainfall,” he said. “We must act swiftly to ensure the safety of our residents and minimize damage.”

The Governor emphasized that all provincial government offices (PGMOs) and national agencies involved in disaster response must remain on high alert, stressing that the province is prepared to manage the situation. “I am inspired by the readiness and commitment of both PGMOs and national agencies. I am confident that we are fully prepared and in compliance with safety protocols,” Oaminal added.

Acting PDRRMO Officer Gain Paul De Barras presented a situation report, outlining the impact of the heavy rainfall on municipalities such as Oroquieta, Jimenez, and Plaridel. He also warned of continued adverse weather, with forecasts predicting further rainfall over the next 48 hours. "The situation will likely worsen later today, and we expect the weather system to affect us through the weekend. Immediate preparedness is essential," De Barras cautioned.

He recommended activating all disaster response teams and ensuring that equipment and personnel are on standby. As of 10:00 PM on November 28, 2024, the PDRRMO began monitoring heavy rainfall linked to the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), affecting several municipalities, including Lopez Jaena, Plaridel, Panaon, Jimenez, Sinacaban, Tudela, and Bonifacio.

By the morning of November 29, a Yellow Warning Advisory was issued for Don Victoriano Chiongbian, Concepcion, Clarin, and Sapang Dalaga, which was later expanded to cover the entire province by 4:20 AM.

By 10:00 AM, while water levels in major river tributaries began to recede, flooding and landslides had already caused significant disruptions. A landslide in Brgy. Guiban, Concepcion, was reported, though no casualties were reported. Flooded roads, such as those in Brgy. Pelong, Makawa (Aloran), remained passable for vehicles, although many other routes were compromised.

A distressed fisherman from Brgy. Conat, Aloran, was rescued by the Philippine Coast Guard, who coordinated swiftly with local authorities. There were no major power outages, and communication lines remained operational throughout the province.

While some roads and bridges remain impassable, port operations in Ozamiz City, Plaridel, and Oroquieta have also been disrupted, with several sea vessel trips cancelled or delayed. Damage assessments are ongoing, and relief operations have begun. Local authorities are focusing on pre-positioning food and non-food supplies for affected residents.

Governor Oaminal concluded the meeting by emphasizing the importance of continued coordination and vigilance as the weather event unfolds. “Our response must be quick, organized, and efficient. Let’s stay united and prepared for whatever challenges come our way,” he urged. (SN/PGMO)