A week after Typhoon Emong hit La Union, many communities across the province still do not have electricity.

Fallen electric posts and trees blocking power lines continue to delay full restoration of electricity in several areas, especially in the upland barangays.

According to La Union Electric Cooperative (LUELCO), around 30 percent of the province, or more than 150 barangays, still have no power.

LUELCO and several electric cooperatives from neighboring provinces have been working long hours, spending at least 12 hours a day to restore electricity. However, full restoration may take up to three more weeks.

“Kaunting pasensya lang po, promise po namin na magkakailaw din po kayo,” Engr. Mario del Rosario, officer-in-charge of LUELCO's Construction, Operation, and Maintenance division, said.

Aside from power restoration, clearing operations also continue in affected towns, including Bacnotan, one of the hardest-hit areas. More than 3,500 houses there were partially damaged, while over 300 were totally destroyed.

In Bacnotan, a house was crushed by a santol and mango tree, causing the couple living there to fall from the second floor and suffer minor injuries.

“Mahirap na mahirap ang sitwasyon namin ngayon,” Mary Cariaso, a resident, said.

Food, clean water, and clothing are urgently needed by residents.

“Kahit ano na, tinatrabaho ko na para lang magkapera ako at may pambili kami ng makakain. Mahirap sitwasyon namin. Hindi ko alam paano kami magsisimula ulit,” Ruth Tabalan, another resident, added.

The local government has started giving out aid and is also processing additional assistance from the national government.

“Sila na po ang unang tinulungan natin,” Bacnotan DRRM Officer Romel Montepalco said.