Eastern, Northern Samar officials appeal for help

TACLOBAN City — Local government officials from the provinces of Northern Samar and Eastern Samar have appealed for help for thousands of families affected by Typhoon Ambo, which barreled through the region last May 14.

In Eastern Samar, Governor Ben Evardone was in awe as he saw the devastation wrought by “Ambo” in the towns of Dolores, Oras, Arteche, San Policarpo, and Jipapad.

“To my fellow Estehanons, we know that we are facing a great challenge because of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), which was worsen when Typhoon ‘Ambo’ hit us, it’s unfortunate and awful to witness. I was also able to talk with the mayor of Maslog. They are having a hard time because of damaged houses and loss of livelihood. Flash floods also washed out many carabaos, pigs, and chickens, even their newly harvested palays,” he narrated.

Evardone said the provincial board has approved a resolution, declaring a state of calamity in Arteche, San Policarpio, Jipapad, Oras, Maslog, Dolores, Can-avid, Taft, and Sulat.

He added that the province remained coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-free, and will try to maintain this status despite being slammed by one of the strongest typhoons tagged as ‘Yolanda Jr.’

“We will not allow our people to starve. Let us help each other to make sure that we will rise from this, that’s why I’m seeking help from all of you,” Evardone urged.

The official also sought help from his friends in Manila and other foundations and big companies.

“Doon na mansamgakaibigankosa Manila at saibanglugar, katulad ng SM Foundation, Metrobank GT Foundation, Ayala Foundation, PLDT-SMART Foundation, ABS-CBN Foundation, GMA KAPUSO Foundation, Aboitiz Foundation, San Miguel Corp., at iba pang mgakaibigannatin, nakikiusappoakosainyo, tulunganniyopo kami, pagkain, housing materials, damit at mgagamot,” he said.

He also asked the national government, especially the National Housing Authority to provide them with housing materials, and the Department of Social Welfare and Development for food packs.

Eastern Samar has recorded at least four people dead in Oras and San Policarpio town and 14 persons injured in Can-avid and San Policarpio.

Northern Samar Governor Edwin Ongchuan has appealed for any form of assistance for Lapinig town.

“We badly need new or even used tarpaulin for their temporary shelter,” he said.

Several LGUs namely Catarman, Allen, Laoang, Mondragon, Palapag, Pambujan, and San Roque have waived their relief goods in favor of Lapinig in order to augment their food supply. (Marie Tonette Marticio)