Antique: The provincial government declared a state of calamity following its approval by the Provincial Board in a special session on Friday. The declaration also authorized Governor Paolo Javier to use a portion of the province's quick response fund (QRF) amounting to more than PHP35 million.
According to Philippines News Agency, a portion of the QRF will be used for response, early recovery, and reconstruction operations needed due to the damage incurred from the southwest monsoon enhanced by Tropical Storm Crising. The weather disturbance caused an estimated damage of more than PHP626.47 million in infrastructure, agriculture, fisheries, livestock, social facilities, and tourism.
The replanting of rice crops on 336.56 hectares of farmland in the province will be prioritized for the QRF. Board Member Fernando Corvera Sr. mentioned the need to assist families whose houses had been damaged. The inclement weather destroyed 51 houses and damaged 139 in the municipalities of Hamtic and Laua-an.
Board Member Zoilo Bernardo Tubianosa highlighted the need to procure hygiene kits, medicines, and other necessities for evacuees and affected families. He stressed the importance of ensuring access to clean potable water and uncontaminated food for the people.