Philippines Floods Bury Homes
Nearly three weeks of relentless southwest monsoon rains have caused severe flooding and thick sediment deposits in San Marcelino, Zambales, burying homes and cutting off communities.
Drone footage shows inundated residential areas, damaged roads and houses surrounded by deep mud and sand after a protective dike was breached.
“This is the first time this has happened since the volcano erupted — this water, it’s extremely strong. Ever since I was young, this is the strongest water flow I’ve ever seen come through our barangay,” Rico Diego Arquero, Barangay Kapitan of Sta. Fe village, said.
“Many houses were destroyed here in Aguire; some were buried at the back, including the former Barangay Kapitan’s house. My house over in the flatlands on our farm was also buried,” he added.
Residents Struggle Through Floods
Some residents have been left stranded or unable to reach homes after the rains washed away dirt roads and flooded streets.
“I almost cried because going home is such a struggle, especially since no vehicles can pass through floodwaters. So we just walk, even though it’s exhausting. The flood was huge – it was up to my waist! I got soaked, and I even sank into the mud,” said a local.
In San Marcelino, a collapsed protective dike sent floodwater and sediment into residential areas, while a damaged bridge cut off communities from the town centre.
Monsoon Flood Damage Grows
The flooding followed weeks of heavy southwest monsoon rains, known locally as habagat, which have affected parts of Zambales. Over 17,000 residents are affected, with severe damage to infrastructure and agriculture.
Article by Viory
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