By LIEZLE BASA IÑIGO
CALASIAO, Pangasinan — Amid ongoing controversy surrounding flood control projects, the local government unit (LGU) of Calasiao is hoping for swift action to address the recurring massive flooding in Barangay Mancup.
Residents endured severe inundation during the last week of July, with the barangay earning the nickname “Water World.”
The nightmare returned from Sept. 22 to 25, catching locals off guard. Floodwaters rose rapidly, reaching knee-deep along Mancup Road. In interior areas, the water surged to waist or even neckline level.
Locals say it was the worst flooding they’ve seen in nearly four decades.
“Nakakatakot. Walang ulan ng dalawang araw pero biglang bumaha, at ang bilis pang tumaas ng tubig,” said Vanessa, a resident.
Meanwhile, a damaged section of the dike was reported to have caused flooding in Barangays San Vicente and Banaoang. Mayor Patrick Caramat, together with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) and the Engineering Office, inspected the site.
Mayor Caramat said they are preparing a report to send to concerned agencies for urgent action.
“Umaasa po tayo na agad maaksyunan ang problemang ito dahil maraming pamilya sa Calasiao ang naaapektuhan ng biglaang pagtaas ng tubig-baha.”
