The municipality of Panganiban, Catanduanes, is reeling from severe damage to homes following the onslaught of Super Typhoon Pepito.
In an interview during Dos Por Dos on Monday, Panganiban Mayor Cesar Robles reported that initial data from the Local Government Unit (LGU) revealed that around 488 houses were damaged across its seven barangays. Of these, 250 were completely destroyed.
Additionally, a total of 612 families were evacuated due to the threat posed by the super typhoon. Robles noted that these figures may rise as some coastal areas remain inaccessible. Efforts are underway to reach these areas and provide updates for the families of those affected.
"Halos nakilala po kami na kilala pagdating sa malalakas na bagyo, pero sa totoo lang po, itong bagyong nakaraan na 'to ay kakaiba ang dulot. Minsan nakikita ko yung mga constituent na nagpapanic doon sa situation dahil hindi na po kami sanay na dinadaanan ng malalakas na bagyo," Robles said.
As of Sunday, 133 families whose homes were completely devastated remain in evacuation centers.
Challenge of Rehabilitation
Mayor Robles emphasized the enormous challenge of rehabilitating the damaged homes, citing insufficient LGU funds to support affected families in rebuilding.
"Ang malaking challenge po sa akin bilang isang alkalde ay yung kung paano namin sila mapo-provide ng kanilang mga pangangailangan, gaya ng mga yero. Halos lahat nangangailangan," Robles shared.
"Ang malaking problema dito ay yung mga gagamitin nila para mag-construct ng kanilang mga nasirang bahay. Isa pa, yung mga hanapbuhay nila ay natitigil," he added.
Robles called on the National Government for urgent assistance, particularly in rehabilitating houses, providing food, and repairing fishing boats, which are the main source of livelihood for many residents.
"Gusto ko na rin samantalahin na manawagan sa ating Pangulo kung pupwede pong matulungan po kami kasi kailangan na kailangan ng aking mga kababayan," Robles appealed.
Clearing operations are still ongoing in the municipality.
Super Typhoon Pepito made its first landfall in Panganiban, Catanduanes, on Saturday evening, with Wind Signal No. 5 raised across the entire province.
