Koko asks for help, prayers for CDO, other flood-affected areas

Senate President Aquilino "Koko" Pimentel III on Tuesday appealed to the public for prayers and material assistance for the victims of massive flooding in Cagayan de Oro City and other areas in Visayas and Mindanao.

The floods were brought about by prolonged heavy rains due to the combined effect of the tail-end of the cold front and a low pressure area.

Pimentel, a native of Cagayan de Oro city, said, "We need to show the flood victims that they are not alone, and we are ready to stand in solidarity with them in their hour of need."

Pimentel said that his office, although limited in resources, will do its best to help the victims to complement government efforts.

The Office of the Senate President has launched a relief drive, called TabangCDO, which would help flood victims.

Pimentel said, "We are putting up boxes in the Senate, at the PDP Laban headquarters in Pasay, and at Duterte's Kitchen in Cubao, for those with goods to share with our countrymen in the affected areas."

Despite the name of the operation, Pimentel assured the public that the help will not be limited to his hometown.

Pimentel said, "Let us remember that flood victims are not limited to CDO. We should ensure that we can help everyone to the best of our abilities."

The combination of the two weather phenomena has caused floods in various areas in Visayas and Mindanao.

Cagayan de Oro City has declared a state of calamity due to the floods that devastated the city.

At 7am on Tuesday, PAGASA forecast more rains in the following 24 hours, and issued flood advisories for Regions 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, and 13.