Dagupan: The city government of Dagupan declared a state of calamity on Monday due to massive flooding that has affected 22,047 families in 31 villages.

According to Philippines News Agency, the latest City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) situational report indicates that 23 villages remain flooded, impacting 22,047 families or 90,015 individuals across 31 villages. Mayor Belen Fernandez reported that 65 families, comprising 202 individuals, have been preemptively evacuated to six designated evacuation centers.

"Because of the situation, some main roads are not passable by light vehicles while, for seven consecutive days, classes have been suspended in all levels," Mayor Fernandez stated in a news release. The declaration of the state of calamity, recommended by the CDRRM Council and approved by the city council, will facilitate the use of necessary funds for relief efforts, response initiatives, rehabilitation, and other essential needs of the affected residents.

The declaration also mandates the enforcement of price control on basic necessities and prime commodities to prevent overpricing, profiteering, and hoarding during this crisis.