ZAMBOANGA CITY — More than 60 houses were destroyed while at least 17 others were damaged when they got hit by huge waves in Barangay (village) Labuan here on New Year’s eve.
“Typhoon Seniang still hit our village as it left the country last night (Wednesday night, Dec. 31). So many families were left homeless. They are staying in covered courts, Islamic school or with relatives,” Ronald Maravilla, the village chief of Labuan, said.
Resident Radeem Ali said the strong waves started pounding the houses at around 7 p.m..
At 9 p.m., Ali and the other residents decided to leave their homes as the waves grew bigger.
Maravilla said the waves were 20 to 30 feet high, destroying and washing out shoreline houses.
Maria Socorro Roxas, the city social welfare officer, told the nquirer that about 60 houses were destroyed and 17 others were damaged.
“We are on our way to bring food packs and other non-food items. We are bringing food stuff good for 120 families,” Roxas said.
Maravilla said no one was reported hurt by the waves as residents were able to evacuate when they observed the unusual tide moveme