Virac, Catanduanes – The Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Catanduanes has declared the entire province under a State of Calamity on October 24, 2024, following the severe impacts of Typhoon Kristine.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) recommended the declaration after holding a special meeting on October 23, 2024. The council cited the widespread disruption caused by the typhoon, including paralyzed transportation due to landslides, extensive flooding, and five casualties.
In Caramoran, four people were killed when a landslide buried them, while another fatality was reported in Bagamanoc due to the typhoon. According to MSWD Officer Noe Talion, Jr., the victims were buried between 3:00 and 4:00 a.m. on October 23, 2024, as their parents sought help to relocate amid the strong winds and heavy rain.
Furthermore, ferry services between Tabaco and Virac as well as San Andres have been suspended for almost five days due to the typhoon signal. The Philippine Coast Guard is expected to lift the signal soon, allowing services to resume. While other provinces faced greater devastation, Catanduanes remains relatively fortunate. However, classes and government work were suspended for nearly four days, from October 22 to October 25, 2024, due to the typhoon’s impact.
Electricity has been partially restored in various areas across Catanduanes following the impact of Typhoon Kristine. As of October 24, 2024, approximately 33% of the power supply remains down, with mountainous regions bearing the brunt of damage to power lines. (Ferdie Brizo/BP Newsteam)
