MMDA deploys team to Paeng-hit Maguindanao

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Thursday said it has delivered water purifiers in Maguindanao after Severe Tropical Storm Paeng affected the water supply in the area.

Aside from this, MMDA acting chairperson Romando Artes said their 28-man team also helped in clearing the roads in the province which were hit by floods and landslides.

"The team will set up water purifiers in various communities with limited to no supply of clean water. Some will also help in the ongoing operations to clear the roads affected by massive flooding and landslides," Artes said in a statement.

At least 40 units of portable water purification systems, which can filter 180 gallons of water per hour, as well as some materials for road clearing operations were provided by the MMDA.

According to the MMDA, the team is set to provide assistance in the province for 15 days in coordination with  the 6th Infantry Division of the Philippine Army.

The MMDA deployed its team after President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. directed all government agencies to prioritize delivering supplies of drinking water to Paeng victims in Maguindanao.

At least 61 of the 122 reported fatalities due to Paeng were in Maguindanao, according to the 6 p.m. report of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) on Wednesday. — Joviland Rita/RSJ, GMA News