Iloilo: Severe Tropical Storm Opong has displaced 692 families, equivalent to 2,529 individuals, in Iloilo City.

According to Philippines News Agency, of the total displaced, 139 families or 445 people are being accommodated in 19 evacuation centers.

The city has opened 450 evacuation centers across its seven districts, which have a total capacity to accommodate over 45,000 families or more than 200,000 individuals affected by the tropical cyclone. Despite these efforts, 82 villages in the city remain flooded.

"Our community kitchens have already been activated in evacuation centers with evacuees, ensuring that hot meals are served to affected families," Joy Gorzal, spokesperson for Mayor Raisa Tre±as, said in an interview. Additionally, the city government provided hot meals to 381 stranded passengers at the Lapuz roll-on, roll-off port and Parola wharf, who were impacted by the cancellation of sea travels.

To combat potential health risks, the city health office has opened all district centers, providing free doxycycline to protect against leptospirosis for those affected by flooding. So far, 4,545 individuals have received the antibiotic.

"Our emergency response teams remain on full alert and have been continuously responding to reports of fallen trees and other hazards to ensure the safety of everyone," Gorzal stated.