27 Manila barangays under state of calamity

MANILA, Philippines — The Manila city government has declared a state of calamity in 27 flood-hit barangays, allowing the local units to quickly access their calamity funds for humanitarian support and disaster relief operations.

Vice Mayor Chi Atienza said the city council declared the state of calamity in Barangays 101, 105, 195, 199, 213, 214, 215, 216, 217, 292, 313, 314, 327, 330, 432, 598, 600, 602, 607, 649, 686, 738, 800, 884, 893, 895 and 903 during a special session.

Atienza said that with the available calamity funds, barangays could utilize the budget to provide hot meals, medicines and other essential relief goods for their residents.

“This resolution is more than just a formal declaration; it is a concrete step toward ensuring that the affected communities receive the necessary assistance, resources and support during this difficult time,” Councilor Raymundo Yupangco said when he sponsored the initiative.

Councilors Jaybee Hizon and Elmer Par said that despite the continuous weekly clearing operations in the city’s drainages, the rainfall volume and the opening of the dams resulted in massive flooding in the city.

“No matter how perfect our drainage system is, if the creeks are already full and the Pasig River is already high, there is simply nowhere for the floodwaters to go,” Hizon said.

Councilor DJ Bagatsing noted an improvement in flood recession in some of the traditionally flood-hit areas like España Boulevard.

Meanwhile, Councilor Lou Veloso pushed for stricter sanctions against litterbugs, stressing that clogged drains were due to improperly disposed garbage.

“I hope we can go beyond fines. It should be a criminal act because floods can be fatal,” Veloso said.

Other barangays reportedly want to be included in the resolution.

Atienza advised the barangay leaders to secure a certification first from the city’s social welfare department.