CAPIZ — Torrential rains brought by Tropical Storm “Ramil” triggered severe flash floods across Capiz on October 18, leaving five people dead and affecting more than 100,000 residents.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) confirmed that two of the fatalities were identified as Mary Mae Urdelas, 22, of Barangay Malocloc Sur, Ivisan, and Rizaldo Balgos, 44, of Barangay Dinginan, Roxas City.
Another victim reportedly died from electrocution in the municipality of Pilar, while two additional deaths in Roxas City were still being investigated as possible flood-related casualties.
PDRRMO chief Atty. Sheila A. Artillero said the office continued to validate reports of additional fatalities and property damages caused by the sudden surge of floodwaters.
According to official data, 27,626 families or 100,575 individuals were affected by the flooding, which inundated large portions of Sigma, Dao, Dumalag, Maayon, Panay, Pilar, and President Roxas towns.
Roxas City has since been placed under a state of calamity, following what officials described as one of the most destructive flash floods in recent history.
Eyewitnesses reported that floodwaters rose to chest level in several areas on Saturday afternoon and evening, forcing residents to seek refuge on rooftops and higher ground.
Local government units immediately activated rescue and relief operations. Mayor Ronnie Dadivas led Roxas City responders and volunteers in assisting trapped residents and distributing emergency supplies.
As the waters began to recede, clearing operations were launched, and emergency relief efforts were intensified to aid displaced families.
In the wake of the disaster, classes in all levels — both public and private — in Roxas City were suspended from October 20 to 22 due to the widespread flooding.
Dadivas said more than 30 schools were submerged on Oct. 18, prompting the suspension to ensure the safety of students and personnel, and to allow time for cleanup and psychosocial recovery.
While floodwaters in the city proper have largely subsided, the mayor noted that some areas remain inaccessible due to road damage, landslides, and infrastructure collapse.
“We want to make sure no student or staff member is placed at risk while traveling to school,” he said.
Authorities continue to urge residents to remain alert and follow safety advisories as recovery and rehabilitation efforts continue. The PDRRMO is closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with municipal governments to provide assistance to affected communities./PN
