Caloocan opens disaster hotlines

MANILA, Philippines - The Caloocan City government, in preparation for the arrival of typhoon “Pepeng,” reactivated yesterday 24-hour hotline numbers that residents could call for emergencies, especially for urgent rescue and relief needs.

Mayor Enrico Echiverri said Caloocan City South, which is composed of Barangays 1 to 164, could call hotline numbers 324-5168 and 324-4567 while Caloocan City North, made up of Barangays 165 to 188, may call 386-6568.

Echiverri said the Caloocan City Disaster Coordinating Council (CDCC) could also be reached through 0939-4717791, “a disaster relief text number that stands ready to provide assistance and relief during emergencies.”

The mayor appealed to pranksters to refrain from using the number and advised CDCC personnel to verify received text messages.

He said the local government has prepared for Pepeng by conducting clearing operations in waterways and by positioning its rescue teams and equipment in flood-prone areas of the city.      – Pete Laude