Floods hit barangays in Malabon, Caloocan

A heavy overnight downpour caused flash floods in at least seven low-lying barangays in Malabon City and a large portion of Dagat-Dagatan in Caloocan City yesterday morning.

Compounded by a 1.8-meter high tide, Barangays Tonsuya, Maysilo, Taniong, Dampalit, Longos, Catmon and Panghulo saw water rise to some three feet, according to Malabon Traffic Management Office radio operator Joel Pablo.

Ronnie Gumatay, of the city’s public information office, said the flash floods, did not hamper normal activities in the flood-prone city, especially classes in both elementary and high school levels.

"Flood is a normal occurrence in Malabon," he said.

The affected areas, however, were not passable to light vehicles as of 1 p.m. yesterday.

Malabon Mayor Tito Oreta and members of the City Disaster Coordinating Council held a meeting yesterday in preparation for even worse flooding problems.

At around 11:17 a.m. today, the high tide is expected to reach 1.9 meters.

Meanwhile, Malabon police chief Superintendent Moises Guevarra said his office and the entire police force are prepared for any contingency.

He said the police have two rubber boats and six bancas, which are all in good condition for use in possible evacuation of flood-affected residents.

Guevarra also said that the local department of social welfare and development has already stocked ample food supplies for the expected crisis.

In Caloocan, most of Dagat-Dagatan area, particularly on Tanigue street near the Kaunlaran Elementary School, Dagat-Dagatan Avenue and Libis street were also flooded.

In Navotas, Vic Tongco of the town’s public information office, said flash flood was hardly felt in their area.

"We have at least three pumping stations that help abate the effect of floods in our area," Tongco said.

Erwin Marasigan of Valenzuela City public information office said that no flood-related reports reached their office.