MMDA sends rescuers to ‘Lando’-hit areas

THE METROPOLITAN Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has sent a 45-man team to conduct clearing and rescue operations in Central and northern Luzon provinces that were hit hard by Typhoon “Lando” (international name: Koppu).

MMDA officer in charge Emerson Carlos said three teams composed of 15 men were each deployed to Nueva Ecija, Cagayan and Isabela provinces.

He added that members of one of the teams met with Nueva Ecija Gov. Aurelio Umali on Sunday and were briefed on ongoing rescue and clearing operations in the province—one of the areas devastated by Lando.

According to Carlos, a fourth team was supposed to be deployed to Aurora but roads leading to the province remain inaccessible due to flashfloods.

The MMDA has previously taken part in rescue, relief and clearing operations in areas devastated by typhoons, deploying teams equipped with search cameras, chainsaws and other gear.

More than 20,000 individuals were affected after Lando brought heavy rains, strong winds and flashfloods to some areas in Luzon.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council initially reported that the typhoon left two casualties—a 14-year-old from Quezon City who was struck by a falling tree and a woman from Subic, Zambales, who suffered head injuries after a wall collapsed on her. Maricar B. Brizuela