Bancas are the only means of transport in flooded barangays Almacen and Daungan in Hermosa, Bataan. Photo by Ernie Esconde
HERMOSA, Bataan — Portions of almost 51 barangays in eight towns and one city in Bataan were flooded Saturday after intermittent moderate to heavy rains triggered by habagat due to Typhoon Fabian hit the province.
Teresita Señora, head of the operation and warning division of the provincial disaster risk reduction management office, said affected by floods were portions of the towns of Dinalupihan, Hermosa, Mariveles, Orani, Orion, Pilar, Samal, and Bagac, and the City of Balanga.
She said that most of the low-lying barangays were only with ankle- to knee-deep flood waters except Almacen in Hermosa that has waist-deep waters.
Bancas were the means of transportation from Almacen and back.
Virgilio Napinas said the Almacen River overflowed and water started to rise in the barangay at 12 midnight. “Hanggang beywang ang baha sa daan at maraming bahay ang pinasok ng tubig,” the old man said.
Napinas and wife came from the market and were wading through the flood in Barangay Daungan, Hermosa to ride a banca for Almacen. They were happy that Saturday’s flood was only the first in their barangay this year.
“Noong nakaraang taon ay minsan lang bumaha at ngayon naman ay ito pa lang din ang unang pagbaha sa amin. Natutuwa kami dahil dati ay panay na bumabaha,” Napinas said.
Señora said Bataan is ready for any eventuality and the PDRRMO on standby 24/7. She said rubber boats and other equipment were prepared and to be dispatched as need arises.
She said that Gov. Albert Garcia has directed the preparation of relief goods for those to be evacuated.
“Walang reported na nawawala o nasaktan at lahat ng kalsada ay passable. Kahit sa lindol na nangyari ay wala namang na-report na damage, bumagsak o casualties,” Señora said.
