Bacolod: Bacolodnons are calling for accountability from local government officials following the massive floods that affected more than 50 percent of the 61 barangays due to heavy rains brought by Tropical Depression Verbena on Tuesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, data from the city's Department of Social Services and Development showed that 5,318 families, or 15,896 persons, sought shelter in over 60 evacuation centers across the city. As of noon, 2,791 families, consisting of 8,269 individuals, have returned home. Nine evacuations in Barangay Singcang-Airport are providing shelter to 2,412 families, or 5,313 persons. In the village's Purok Mars, floodwaters reached ceilings, prompting residents to climb to rooftops and call for rescue. Residents of Purok Carvic in Barangay Mandalagan experienced flooding that reached chest levels.
Personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection and Philippine Coast Guard rescued residents in some areas of Barangays Pahanocoy, Sum-ag, and Banago as non-stop rains flooded the areas early Tuesday. Mayor Greg Gasataya stated on Wednesday that relief operations continue to ensure the basic needs of those affected by the typhoon.
In a Facebook post after the floods, the Council of Concerned Citizens (C3), represented by lawyer Cesar Belario Jr., announced plans to file an initial complaint this week before the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, the Independent Commission for Infrastructure, and the Office of the Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary. The C3 emphasized that the flooding is a consequence of years of irregularities in flood-control projects and called for action, stating, "Bacolod deserves better - and together, we will fight for it."
Social media posts have also criticized city officials regarding the allocation of several billions of flood control project funds for Bacolod between 2017 and 2025. Association of Negros Producers chairperson Arlene Infante questioned the whereabouts of the PHP4.28 billion worth of flood projects over nine years, highlighting that the issue cannot be blamed solely on clogged creeks. A Facebook page named 'Revolutionary Bacolod' demanded answers, accountability, and the return of funds.
