SAN JOSE DE BUENAVISTA: Local government units across Antique province have been urged to preemptively evacuate residents from low-lying areas that are at risk of flooding due to Tropical Storm Kristine, which is bringing light to heavy rain showers. The call for evacuation comes as authorities closely monitor river levels in response to the weather conditions.
According to Philippines News Agency, Broderick Train, head of the Antique Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), stated in an interview that while river levels have not yet reached alarming heights, continuous monitoring is essential. The Sibalom River in Sibalom town and the Paliwan River in Bugasong are under scrutiny, as they have historically been prone to flooding.
Antique Governor Rhodora Cadiao has issued Memorandum Order No.34, activating the Blue Alert Level for emergency operation centers from the provincial level down to barangay councils. This order mandates personnel to be on standby, prepared to respond to p
otential disasters. Despite these precautions, work at the provincial government continues, according to Train.
To ensure the safety of students, in-person classes have been shifted to alternative delivery modes in 16 municipalities, including San Remigio, Belison, Barbaza, Sebaste, Laua-an, Patnongon, Bugasong, Pandan, and Valderrama. Other municipalities such as San Jose de Buenavista, Sibalom, Hamtic, Anini-y, Culasi, Tibiao, and Libertad have suspended in-person classes from preschool to senior high school.
Train also advised farmers to secure their carabaos and other livestock to prevent illness and potential stranding. He noted past incidents where farmers faced danger or even drowned while attempting to rescue their animals during flooding.