‘Odette’ leaves ‘devastating’ damage to Siargao, says Surigao Norte lawmaker

DAVAO CITY—Supertyphoon “Odette” has left a “devastating” damage to the paradise destination of Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte.

In a social media post, Surigao del Norte Rep. Francisco Jose Matugas II said there were no reports of casualty as of this writing.

He said he was given updates of Odette’s aftermath in Siargao by Richard Alas, acting manager of the Sayak Airport in Del Carmen town.

“Per Mr. Alas’ initial assessment, the damage of Odette in Siargao is devastating,” Matugas said.

Matugas said the airport’s terminal building was totally damaged but its runway was clear of debris, hence could be used to land planes and choppers to fly in relief goods.

Officials of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council are expected to fly into the island from Davao City this morning for a damage assessment and establishment of VSAT communications equipment to restore connectivity, he added.

Matugas said they were also expecting the arrival from Legaspi City of a team of doctors and supplies of medicines and first aid kits to augment emergency and rescue operations in Siargao.

Matugas disclosed that Surigao del Norte Gov. Francisco Matugas and his wife, provincial administrator Sol Matugas, were trapped in the island amid the onslaught Thursday of Odette as they were making the rounds among the evacuation sites in the towns there.

But he said the two officials were safe from harm.

lzb