Strong winds, heavy rain destroy 200 homes in Koronadal

Koronadal City (Wikipedia maps)

KORONADAL CITY—More than 190 homes were destroyed as strong winds and heavy rain toppled trees brought about by weather disturbance in the past two days here.

Cyrus Urbano, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) action officer, said no one was reported injured during strong winds that sent down centuries old trees.

Also, at least 10 vehicles were also damaged after toppled coconut and acacia trees fell on them.

Ester del Prado, a resident of Barangay Sto. Nino, said she thought it was just an ordinary rainy afternoon on Thursday but was alarmed when winds started to break trees and other houses made of light materials.

“I saw huge trees falling down, light objects flying all over,” Del Prado told reporters. “I hurriedly rushed inside and ensure my children are safe.”

Some residents described the strong winds in Barangay New Pangasinan, Koronadal City as tornado that swept through adjoining villages.

Cyrus Urbano, city disaster reduction chief, said the city government has extended financial assistance to families ranging from P5,000 to P7,000 per family.

The South Cotabato disaster risk reduction and management office also extended assistance to barangay governments of affected villages.

A state of calamity has been declared in Barangay Sto. Nino. /jpv