MGB-VI identifies 10 Iloilo towns at risk of flooding, landslides

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Mines and Geosciences Bureau (DENR-MGB) Region VI identified 10 of the 43 local government units (LGUs) in Iloilo at risk of rain-induced landslides and flooding.

“We have provided the top 10 list of high-risk areas for both rain-induced landslides and flood but, time and time again, we reiterate that if you are not in the list, it doesn’t mean that you have no risk of landslides and floods,” DENR-MGB Senior Geologist Mae Magarso was quoted as saying in a report.

The identified towns were Leon, Tubungan, Igbaras, Miagao, San Joaquin, Maasin, Janiuay, Calinog, Lambunao, and Alimodian.

The agency urged these LGUs to consult their geohazard map especially at times when typhoon advisories are being raised by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).

“When there is an announcement from PAGASA, since they are rain-induced landslides, they have to be prepared to be evacuated,” Magarso stated in the report.

The towns of Balasan, Batad, and Carles, after being hit by Typhoon Ursula last December, are also under close watch.

Magarso stated that the agency is planning to conduct an information and education campaign on these three municipalities, among other LGUs in the province, for the local officials to be updated of the geohazard assessment.

With this campaign, the LGUs in the province will not only have a better understanding of the geohazard map but will also be more prepared for evacuation when disasters occur.