CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga -- The entire province of Bataan was declared under a state of calamity following flash floods brought about by heavy rains spawned by tropical cyclone Josie.
According to the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (RDRRMO), the Bataan Provincial Board passed a resolution, approved by Governor Albert Garcia, on July 21, declaring the entire province of Bataan under a state of calamity.
RDRRMO authorities said many portions of both MacArthur and Roman highways were not passable to all types of vehicles like in Samal town where people walked through the flooded road.
Ibaba, Santa Lucia, Daan Bago East and West, San Juan, San Roque, Tabing-Ilog, Sapa, East and West Calaguiman -- all barangays in Samal were in deep floodwaters.
None of the 11 towns and a city was spared from the onslaught of heavy rains caused by tropical cyclone Josie, which was worsened by the southwest monsoon.
Plaza Mayor, the commercial district and surrounding villages in Balanga City were also submerged in floodwater.
In Hermosa, six villages were submerged in flood from two feet to more than six feet deep.
Three barangays in Mariveles were flooded from one-half feet to three feet.
Reports showed that rescue operations were ongoing in Balanga City and the town of Dinalupihan, which were earlier declared under a the state of calamity.
Classes in all levels, both public and private, and work in government offices, except those involved in rescue operations, Bataan were suspended Monday. (Ric Sapnu)