Press Release
September 1, 2011

ANGARA URGES LGU'S TO PREPARE FOR FLOODS

Senator Edgardo J. Angara called on local officials to take a more proactive disaster risk management approach following the series of landslide and flooding incidents caused by recent heavy rainfall.

"Catastrophes such as the recent collapse of a dumpsite in Baguio City necessitate the proactive action by the government. Local officials must strictly enforce laws and regulations on environment, disaster risk management and solid waste management in order to reduce the impact of landslides and floodings," stressed Angara.

At least five persons, including two children, were buried alive when the wall of the Irisan Dumpsite in Baguio City collapsed due to continuous rain caused by tropical storm "Mina".

"Local government units (LGU's) are primarily responsible for the implementation of Solid Waste Management Act, which mandates that the proper disposal of wastes start in the barangays. Aside from that, they shall also be familiar with geo-hazard maps in order to prepare residents in areas that are susceptible to flooding and landslides" he added.

Angara said, "We are among the top 20 worldwide when it comes to emergency loans due to catastrophe. I believe it's time that we become more proactive and establish preventive measures instead of waiting for the next natural disaster to hit our country and scrambling for a response."

A United Nations statement indicated that in 2009, Asia accounted for about 40 percent of more than 330 natural disasters around the world but 89 percent of victims, the Center for Research on the Epidemiology of Disasters said.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) warned that about three or four destructive cyclones are expected to hit the country this month.

Tropical storm "Mina" battered Northern Luzon last weekend, leaving at least 26 people dead, 31 injured and six others missing. It also caused damage to infrastructure and agriculture amounting to P1.16 billion, according to the National Disaster Risk reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

News Latest News Feed