LPA sends 62 families to evacuation centers in Puerto Princesa

PUERTO PRINCESA CITY, Palawan — The City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) here reported Wednesday morning that a total of 62 families, or 244 individuals, were evacuated from their homes due to the low-pressure area located 185 kilometers in the city's southern area.

Based on a situational report provided by CDRRMO officer Earl Timbancaya, it was reported that 59 families, totaling 235 individuals, were temporarily relocated from Barangay Luzviminda during the night of 19 December due to continuous rainfall caused by the low-pressure area (LPA), resulting in flooding in their residences.

However, a considerable number have already returned to their homes today, 20 December. Timbancaya said 13 families are still being accommodated at the mini city hall in the said barangay.

According to the CDRRMO, Purok Katiwasayan in Luzviminda experienced flooding, with water levels reaching a height of 5 to 6 meters. The floodwaters subsided around midnight.

An electrocution incident occurred in Barangay Milagrosa, with no updated information available on the affected individual's identity or condition.

Flooded roads, including the national highway at Sitio Tagbarungis and the Tacduan vicinity, caused vehicles to become stranded, but conditions improved by midnight.

A power outage lasting from 6:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. affected several areas, including Under Banga Sectionalizing Sta. Lourdes, Sicsican, Don Eduardo Village, and Removille.

Most airlines at the seaport and airport operated normally, with the exception of Cebu Pacific Flight 5J 639, which was diverted.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation and advise residents to follow safety guidelines and stay updated on local weather forecasts.