(All barangays of Sasmuan town were submerged in floodwaters, prompting the Sangguniang Bayan to declare the town under state of calamity. Sasmuan Municipal Police Station)
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — The municipality of Sasmuan was placed under State of Calamity due to flooding and damages caused by monsoon rains that were enhanced by tropical disturbances “Josie” and “Karding.”
The Sangguniang Bayan, in a regular session held Tuesday, unanimously passed Resolution No. 86-S-2018 following the recommendation of the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO).
In reports submitted by the MDRRMO to the Sangguniang Bayan, all 12 barangays have been greatly affected by flooding due to intermittent rains.
“The continuous rains brought about by these phenomena gravely affected the town, destroying agricultural products, infrastructure, and fishponds; and resulted in suspension of classes and offices,” the resolution said.
Once State of Calamity is declared, local government units could use their calamity fund to address their immediate needs.
Only after declaration of a state of calamity could the municipal government use its Quick Response Fund to augment the relief efforts of affected barangays. (PIA 3)