State of Calamity Declared in Two Davao Occidental Towns Amid ITCZ Effects

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In response to the severe impacts of the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ), Don Marcelino in Davao Occidental has followed Malita in declaring a state of calamity. The decision was formalized by the local government through Sangguniang Bayan Resolution 207 of 2024, effective from December 28. The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) 11 reported that as of January 1, the ITCZ had affected 12 barangays in Don Marcelino, impacting 2,753 families, which equates to 14,360 individuals. Infrastructure damage has been significant, with the bridge in Barangay North Lamidan, crucial for access to Jose Abad Santos town, being completely impassable. Additionally, road conditions in Barangay Baluntaya and Barangay Nueva Villa are severely compromised, with the latter only allowing motorcycle passage. The bridge in Barangay Calian has also sustained damage. Power outages have affected three barangays in the town. The heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding have led to the destruction of 49 houses and damage to 15 others. Relief efforts have been mobilized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, distributing 1,430 family food packs worth PHP2.2 million, along with 2,628 family kits, 1,178 kitchen kits, and 10 modular tents to the affected families. The broader impact of the ITCZ in Davao Occidental has resulted in one fatality, two missing persons, and 20 injuries. The region, including Davao del Sur and Davao Oriental, experienced flooding and landslides starting December 26 due to persistent rains caused by the ITCZ.