Power lines down, residents urge to stay indoors as “Ompong” batters Cagayan

A video of a power line throwing sparks was captured by UNTV News and Rescue crew in Cagayan.

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – Cagayan Governor Manuel Mamba assures that the provincial government is ready to provide emergency assistance to residents as Typhoon Ompong makes its landfall in the province.

However, the governor advises his constituents to stay indoors as strong winds continue to affect structures and have been perceived to be life-threatening.

Rescue operations are also deferred due to the dangers associated with the storm.

“Ina-advise ko po na kung saan sila safe, doon muna sila. Hintayin natin ang sunlight at ang clearing ng mga roads. Ang mga galling sa Maynila ay huwag munang umuwi hangang hindi ma-clear ang mga roads,” Governor Mamba said during an interview with Daniel Razon on Saturday morning (September 15).

As of 5:00 a.m., Governor Mamba said power lines are down in the entire province. Communication lines, however, are still up. The governor encourages his constituents to report directly to him thru “I-text mo si Gob” campaign.

The official said the priority of the provincial government is to rescue affected residents. However, rescue teams cannot be mobilized yet as debris from fallen trees and structures are expected to be blocking the major roads and going outside will also be dangerous to the rescue teams.

Nevertheless, Governor Mamba assures that all evacuation centers and hospital facilities in the province are all set for evacuation and emergency response.

As of this morning, there are around 20,000 residents already in evacuation centers in the province. – Marje Pelayo

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