Flood-hit Candaba villagers told to evacuate

CANDABA, Pampanga — This town’s mayor has ordered 130 families in two barangays to evacuate after floodwaters swept through their homes following the collapse of portions of the Arnedo dike.

Municipal disaster control officials said the strong currents in the Pampanga River, caused by the continuous rainfall, have also breached the Malisik and Maasim dikes.

Mayor Jerry Pelayo said the floods have destroyed some P10 million in palay and melon due for harvest next month, and caused damage to property placed at some P7 million.

Last Friday morning, Pelayo ordered municipal disaster teams to evacuate a total of 138 families in Barangay Buas.

Affected barangays include San Agustin, Paralaya, Buas, Bambang, Pescadores, Mapaniqui, Barangca and Tagulod.

Gov. Mark Lapid has ordered the provincial disaster coordinating council to help the flood-stricken Candaba residents.