Santa Marcela evacuation centers ready to accommodate evacuees affected by Typhoon Marce

Santa Marcela, Apayao – MDRRM Officer Rodel Ballinan informed that evacuation centers in town are activated and ready for use to serve affected residents.

The activation of the evacuation centers in the municipality came after Mayor Evelyn Martinez has ordered forced evacuation of residents in Barangay Barocboc, particularly those in Zone 7.

The Mayor issued the order after their monitoring showed rise in water level. Barocboc which is nearest to the Apayao-Abulug River could be most affected as in years past. Said river may soon overflow due to the continuous downpour brought by Typhoon Marce.

At present, the Mayor together with the LDRRM workforce is closely monitoring said area, including two other Barangays which are at risk of flooding - the Barangays Consuelo and San Juan.

Consuelo and San Juan are at risk to flooding due to their proximity to the Tamalunog Creek.

Over 2,000 individuals reside in said three barangays.

Mayor Evelyn Martinez, advised the public to prepare and be vigilant as the typhoon may impose damage to properties and even lives. She also reminded residents to prepare for their basic needs and stay safe, avoiding unnecessary activities while the typhoon’s threat is not yet over.

The town is currently under signal number 4.

The MDDRMO also reminds the public to be on alert and keep updated. If an orange alert is announced, then it means people in the area should prepare for evacuation. If red alert is declared, then it means forced evacuation is imposed to residents.