3 Pangasinan barangays in state of calamity in tornado’s wake

At least three barangays in Bayambang town in Pangasinan were declared in state of calamity on Monday after a tornado devastated the area earlier this month.

The tornado had devastated several houses and affected more than 70 families, GMA Dagupan's Joanne Ponsoy reported on "24 Oras North Central Luzon."

Declared in a state of calamity were Barangays Buayaen, San Cagulis and San Gabriel Second.

Only the cement foundations of many houses were left in the tornado's wake.

Some affected families were forced to stay in the pig pen, while others had to stay in the space under the houses of relatives.

Many of them have received relief goods including rice and sardines.

In Barangay Buayaen, one of the affected barangays, 79 families were affected while 10 houses were destroyed.

"Pag ang barangay council ang nag-declare ng state of calamity sa barangay nila, they can make use of their 30 percent quick response fund," said Lito de Vera, a consultant to the town mayor.

"Ibibili namin ng goods para matulungan ang kababayang nangangailangan ng bigas..." added Alexander Barrogo, Barangay Buayaen administrator. — Joel Locsin/LBG, GMA News