Mandaluyong declares state of calamity after Carina-Habagat onslaught

Mandaluyong City declared a state of calamity in the aftermath of a recent typhoon and the enhanced Southwest Monsoon or Habagat causing severe flooding and damage in several parts of the country.

The city council issued ordinance No. 991, S-2024 on July 26, but was made public on July 29.

“Typhoon Carina has caused severe damage to infrastructure, agriculture, and private properties in the National Capital Region resulting in widespread destruction, disruption of livelihood, and displacement of residents,” the ordinance read.

“The City of Mandaluyong recognized the right of every Mandaleno to health and shall protect their lives and limbs of livelihood and displacement of residents,” it added.

The state of calamity declaration would facilitate the release of emergency funds and hasten the repairs and rehabilitation of the affected areas.

Under Republic Act No. 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act, “not less than five percent (5%) of the estimated revenue from regular sources shall be set aside as the LDRRMF (Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund) to support disaster risk management activities.”

Further, the law provides that 30% of the LDRRMF shall be allocated as a Quick Response Fund (QRF) or stand-by fund for relief and recovery programs.

Metro Manila was earlier placed under a state of calamity due to the massive flooding in several cities caused by the typhoon-enhanced southwest monsoon.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council on Monday said that there were 36 reported fatalities due to the recent massive floods and heavy downpours. 

Of this number, 15 deaths in Metro Manila are still up for validation. — DVM, GMA Integrated News