BACOLOD City – Mayor Greg Gasataya on Friday, February 6, cautioned the public against the spread of false and misleading reports about flooding in the city brought by Tropical Storm (TS) “Basyang.”
Gasataya said the circulation of unverified information online during disasters is dangerous, as it can cause unnecessary fear, disrupt emergency response operations, and put lives and property at risk.
“The spread of unverified information during a disaster is irresponsible and dangerous. It creates unnecessary fear and disrupts ongoing response efforts,” the mayor said in a statement.
He also expressed disappointment over individuals who allegedly exploit calamities for online engagement and content monetization at the expense of public safety and truth.
“The city government, through the Bacolod Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (BDRRMO) and other concerned agencies, is closely monitoring conditions on the ground and issuing updates based only on verified information,” Gasataya said.
He urged residents to rely solely on official advisories from the city government and authorized agencies, particularly during emergencies.
“In times of disaster, truth saves lives. Let us act responsibly and verify before we share,” Gasataya added.
As of 11 a.m. on February 6, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) placed Bacolod City under a red rainfall warning, prompting authorities to advise the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
However, late Friday night, the Bacolod City Communications Office (BCCO) announced that PAGASA had downgraded the rainfall warning for the city to yellow as weather conditions continued to improve.
Meanwhile, as of February 6, the Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) recorded about 497 internally displaced persons (IDPs), including 251 stranded passengers at the BREDCO Port due to the suspension of sea vessel travel.
Across Negros Occidental, authorities have recorded more than 10,000 evacuees from various municipalities and cities as a result of the weather disturbance./PN
