BACOLOD City – Several areas in southern Negros Occidental experienced flooding due to continuous rains brought by the enhanced southwest monsoon and Tropical Depression “Crising”, prompting class suspensions and emergency response activation across the province.
According to the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), as of July 17, flooding was reported in the following localities: Hinoba-an, Cauayan, Kabankalan City, Himamaylan City, Binalbagan, Ilog, and Moises Padilla.
In some areas, floodwaters reached knee to waist level, rendering roads impassable and toppling trees. In Barangay Cabagnaan, La Castellana, uprooted trees further worsened road conditions.
PDRRMO head Irene Bel Ploteña reported that several individuals were displaced due to the flooding, and the affected localities were facilitating evacuation efforts as of press time, providing temporary shelters, and delivering immediate assistance to the evacuees.
Also yesterday, 27 LGUs declared the suspension of classes at all levels due to severe weather conditions.
In response, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council – Emergency Operations Center (PDRRMC-EOC) raised Negros Occidental to blue alert status effective 10 a.m. on July 17, 2025. This status activates heightened readiness and closer monitoring among disaster response agencies.
Meanwhile, red alert status remains in effect at the PDRRMC-EOC in light of the ongoing Alert Level 3 (Intensified Unrest/Magmatic Unrest) over Mount Kanlaon.
Provincial Health Officer Dr. Ma. Girlie Pinongan reminded the public to stay alert and take necessary health and safety precautions during flooding.
“Tune in to the radio, TV, or internet for weather updates. Prepare an emergency kit with canned goods, soda crackers, bottled water, and other non-perishable food items. Include a flashlight with extra batteries, battery-operated radio, mobile phone, blanket, and dry clothing,” she advised.
During strong winds and heavy rains, residents are urged to watch out for falling debris such as roof tiles, signage, G.I. sheets, or tree branches, stay away from windows and broken glass, unplug all electrical appliances, and avoid riverbanks and seashores.
In case of flooding, evacuate to higher ground immediately. keep children in elevated or secure areas (use flotation devices if necessary), wear protective headgear (use a rope for added safety), assist the elderly and the sick during evacuation, and be cautious of open manholes or side ditches (use a stick to check the safety of the path in flooded areas).
The public is further advised to seek help from their respective barangay emergency teams or call the 911 hotline for immediate assistance./PN
