The province of Capiz has officially been placed under a state of calamity following the approval of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (provincial board) of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office’s (PDRRMO) recommendation in its session held Monday afternoon.
The declaration came after Tropical Storm ‘Ramil’ (international name: Fengshen) battered Western Visayas over the weekend, unleashing torrential rains that caused massive flooding, infrastructure damage, and loss of lives across the province. The move allows the provincial government to mobilize calamity funds and expedite relief, recovery, and rehabilitation efforts for affected communities.
The PDRRMO reported that numerous barangays across Capiz, particularly in Roxas City, Pontevedra, Panit-an, Sigma, Pilar, and Ivisan, remain reeling from extensive flood damage. Roads and bridges in several areas were rendered impassable, while hundreds of families were forced to evacuate to higher ground as floodwaters rose swiftly.
Earlier reports indicated five fatalities, highlighting the severity of the situation. As floodwaters gradually recede, local authorities have begun clearing operations and assessing the extent of damage to homes, crops, and public infrastructure.
Rescue and relief teams continue to deliver food packs, water, and medical aid to flood-affected areas, while local government units are coordinating with DepEd, DSWD, and DPWH for damage assessment and rehabilitation planning.
As Capiz transitioned from emergency response to recovery, authorities urged residents to remain cautious and cooperative as clearing, rebuilding, and rehabilitation operations continue across the province