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Thursday, February 23, 2006
MGB told: Assess So. Leyte for geo-hazards
In her first visit to the scene of the massive landslide that destroyed Barangay Guinsaugon in St. Bernard, Southern Leyte, President Arroyo immediately ordered the Mines and Geo-Sciences Bureau (MGB) to make a geo-hazard map of the entire province.
Southern Leyte Gov. Rosette Lerias informed the President that five towns—St. Bernard, Liloan, San Francisco, Bontoc and Sogod—are threatened by landslides.
Lerias said about 8,000 residents have already left their homes in these towns as they fear for their safety.
Arroyo also met survivors and rescue workers for about one hour yesterday morning for an update on the massive international rescue operation.
US support
The President thanked the international community for its support, especially the United States which has committed between 2,500 and 3,000 troops serving at the scene or on supply ships.
She also thanked Malaysia, Taiwan, Spain and Indonesia which have sent doctors, nurses, troops or specialist teams to help in the rescue efforts.
As her helicopter was about to take off for Cebu, former first lady Imelda Marcos pushed her way past local officials and mud-splattered rescue workers to speak with the President.
The pilot had to reduce the rotor speed as Marcos briefly talked with the President before Arroyo departed. Their comments could not be heard.
Presscon
Imelda, widow of dictator Ferdinand Marcos who was toppled 20 years ago this week, strode back to hold an impromptu press conference.
Imelda said she had traveled by road from Tacloban City where her family came from. She said she had cancelled a trip to Hong Kong for medical treatment to see what she could do.
In Cebu, newly installed Environment Secretary Angelo Reyes said the making of geo-hazard maps of the entire country will be given priority.
The maps will guide national and local officials on possible threats to human settlements.
Reyes, together with Budget Secretary Rolando Andaya Jr. and Social Welfare Secretary Esperanza Cabral, took his oath of office at the Malacañang sa Sugbo yesterday.
In an interview, Cabral said the Department of Social Welfare and Development is managing the evacuation center in Southern Leyte and is providing psycho-social support for the survivors and families of the dead.
“We will help them until they (landslide victims) are resettled and rehabilitated,” said Cabral, a former director of the Philippine Heart Center.
Meanwhile, a concert featuring local bands and Manila entertainers will be held today at the Fuente Osmeña as a fund-raising activity for Southern Leyte.
Singers Chad Borja, Maria Donna and Eva Santos and Pinoy Big Brother former housemate Angela Calina will also be there.
“We are inviting Cebuano talents to help this activity. This is to help our brothers in sisters in Leyte,” said Cebu City Councilor Gerardo Carillo.
Everyone could get inside Fuente Osmeña by donating any amount, which will be added to the estimated P500,000 that was collected so far.(AFP)/JECT of Superbalita/RHM)
For Bisaya stories from Cebu. Click here. (February 23, 2006 issue)
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