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Neighbors sheltered neighbors as Rolly struck Catanduanes —Robredo


Residents of the island province of Catanduanes who lived in concrete houses opened their doors to neighbors whose homes were torn apart by Super Typhoon Rolly, Vice President Leni Robredo said Tuesday.

Robredo, who visited Catanduanes on Tuesday morning, said that the island province was devasted by Rolly, with almost all electric posts knocked down and numerous houses destroyed.

The damage to infrastructure had not only left the province without power but had also knocked out mobile phone communication.

“Credit should also go to the Catanduanons. The bigger houses were opened to take in evacuees. Even the smaller ones made of concrete opened their doors to their neighbors,” Robredo said in a statement.

“This sense of community was the greatest reason why we have few casualties,” Robredo added.

According to the Vice President, the hardest-hit towns were Bato, Baras, Gigmoto, the provincial capital Virac, San Andres, and San Miguel.

“The smaller [houses] made of light materials have been crushed to the ground. Big buildings were not spared. Many lost roofs, windows destroyed, etc. Many school buildings, hospitals, churches, and government facilities have been destroyed,” Robredo added.

“Towns on the northern part of the island cannot yet be reached by car but we were assured they are okay.”

The Vice President also reported that there were some four fatalities in Catanduanes: one in Bato who suffered fatal injuries after he was hit by flying debris and three in Virac, all of whom died by drowning because of the flash floods.

Robredo said that she also went to Barangay Batalay in Bato town where most locals lost their homes and almost all their possessions.

“We were met by Brgy. Capt Domingo Tribiana who said that there were so many more communities that suffered a similar fate,” Robredo said.

“A lot of work will be required to rebuild. In the short term, food and housing materials are what are most needed.”

For those who wished to contact their relatives and love ones in Catanduanes, Robredo said that messages could be sent through Catanduanes Governor Boboy Cua's Facebook account. The provincial capital in Virac was equipped with satellite equipment which can provide an internal connection.

“Please visit the Facebook page of Governor Boboy Cua if you wish to send messages to your families there. They have set up a team that will take care of communications,” Robredo said.

The Vice President also lauded Catanduanes' local government units for their efforts during the emergency.

“Despite the devastation, you can feel that the local governments are working. The streets are clean and orderly. Shops are still closed but you can see long lines at ATM Machines, hardware stores, gasoline stations, etc.,” Robredo added.

During her visit, Robredo was accompanied by Cua, Catanduanes Representative Hector Sanchez, and Mayor Johnny Rodulfo of Bato, town. — DVM, GMA News

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