Supplies delivered via zipline to CamSur residents after roads destroyed by Kristine

Essential supplies are being delivered via zipline to calamity-hit residents of Balatan in Camarines Sur after Severe Tropical Storm Kristine caused landslides that rendered roads impassable, according to Ian Cruz’s report in 24 Oras on Wednesday.

The road connecting Barangay Cabanbanan with the rest of the province was damaged due to a landslide caused by the continuous heavy rainfall caused by Kristine.

Residents now have to brave treacherous terrain such as steep  slopes and deep ravines, especially when they need to get their relief goods. A problem especially for older individuals.

“Importante, kailangan namin makatawid. Ang hirap talaga, sobra,” a senior lamented on the makeshift trail.

(What is important for us is to be able to pass through. It is very hard, though.)

“Mahirap talaga kaso tiyaga kami kasi kailangan,” another elderly woman said.

(Although it’s hard, we really need to do it.)

Military helicopters continued to deliver relief goods as roads remained impassable.

The residents of Balatan are hoping that Typhoon Leon will not heavily affect them this time.

“Naku sana sir wag naman nang tumuloy, God. Ang hirap ng transpo, ang mahal na ng bilihin lalo,” a resident said.

(I hope the typhoon will not affect us, God. Finding transportation is difficult for us and the prices of commodities have risen.)

During Kristine’s onslaught, Balatan recorded 10 landslides which killed three people and injured three others.

Local authorities are now preparing for possible threats posed by Leon.

“Hindi muna kame magpapadaan kasi delikado talaga mga landslide dyan. Konting ulan babagsak,” said Balatan Fire Station officer-in-charge SFO4 Joel Dimaiwat.

(We will not allow anyone to pass because it’s very dangerous due to landslides. Even with light rains, it’s a possibility.)

Meanwhile, road clearing operations by the Department of Public Works and Highways are ongoing to provide better access to the barangay. —Vince Angelo Ferreras/RF, GMA Integrated News