COTABATO: Torrential rains from Tropical Storm Kristine have led to severe flooding in Maguindanao del Sur, impacting 50,000 families, which translates to roughly 250,000 individuals, according to local officials. The storm has inundated 120 barangays across 13 municipalities, prompting urgent relief efforts.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ameer Jehad Ambolodto, head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), reported that while weather conditions have improved, floodwaters continue to rise in some areas due to water flowing downstream into the Liguasan Marsh. In response, Maguindanao del Sur Governor Mariam Mangudadatu, who chairs the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC), has ordered the distribution of emergency relief food packs to affected families. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported so far.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) identified the trough of Kristine as the caus
e of heavy rainfall in Maguindanao del Sur and neighboring regions, including Maguindanao del Norte, North Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani in the Soccsksargen region. As a precaution, classes in all public and private schools across these areas have been suspended due to the flooding.
In North Cotabato, the national highway between Pigcawayan and Libungan was submerged but has since been cleared, although nearby communities remain flooded. Pigcawayan Mayor Juanito Agustin confirmed ongoing challenges due to the water levels. Meanwhile, Magpet has been declared under a state of calamity, facilitating relief distribution to approximately 100 affected families. The floods have damaged at least 36 houses in Barangay Bantac and partially damaged 87 more. Additionally, six remote farming villages experienced landslides.
In Sultan Kudarat, the overflow of the Kulaman River in Sen. Ninoy Aquino town has endangered major bridges and damaged agricultural lands. Rivers originating from Mt. Apo have also overfl
owed, posing a risk to downstream communities in Makilala and Kidapawan City.