AS MASANTOL town remains flooded, local authorities headed by Chief Inspector Nestor Bulatao, Jr. are also providing assistance to affected residents and commuters.

Bulatao said that as part of the multi-agency approach established during calamities, the local police is in close coordination with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC) to provide round the clock assistance to affected individuals.

He disclosed that the local police is in full alert with all its 30 personnel on field to conduct comprehensive monitoring activities of all barangays, particularly on the most affected villages in the left bank portion of this town.

“We have designated mobile patrols that roam the villages round the clock to monitor their situation and provide quick response during emergency situations, especially when sudden rise of flood water occurs. We augment the forces of the MDRRMC for possible forced evacuation that may be imposed any time,” Bulatao said.

Moreover, Bulatao also noted that he designated at least two of its service vehicles to provide “libreng sakay” or free rides to commuters who are stranded due to some impassable local roads due to deep floods.

“We have some roads here that are submerged in up to knee-deep of floodwaters including the Kalsadang Bayu which is considered a strategic thoroughfare for commuters and motorists coming in and out of Masantol. Some vehicles choose not to brave the floodwaters, which leaves some commuters stranded,” he explained.

Bulatao, meanwhile, asked the residents to refrain from posting or spreading unverified or false information to the public, especially on social media platforms, that may cause confusion or panic to people.

He stressed that residents must be always be wary of the information they receive and be alert of their surroundings, especially during this calamity season.