MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) has rescued residents in Cagayan as massive floods hit the province.
The Coast Guard District North Eastern Luzon on a Facebook post on Saturday said its team was able to rescue 276 individuals as of 12:30 a.m.
“As of 12:30 AM of 14 November 2020, the Coast Guard District North Eastern Luzon was able to rescue 276 individuals and will continue to render rescue operations as the massive flooding devastates the provinces of Cagayan and Isabela,” the Coast Guard said.
Parts of Cagayan Valley, particularly in Cagayan and Isabela, have been submerged in floods brought by Typhoon Ulysses.
Photos sent to INQUIRER.net showed the town of Sta. Maria in Isabela submerged in floodwater, with residents saying that the water level was already reaching the second floor of their houses, with some almost reaching the backboards of basketball courts.
Residents believe flooding was caused by the release of water from the Magat Dam which was forced to open seven gates to release water, after reaching the spilling level brought about by rain dumped by Typhoon Ulysses.
#CagayaNeedsHelp also trended on social media, as netizens showed photos and videos of the situation of residents in the affected areas.