While the flooding has subsided in many parts of northern Luzon, a Catholic priest in the Diocese of Ilagan said they continue to receive requests for potable water supply.
Father Carlito Sarte, director of Ilagan’s Diocesan Social Action Center, said access to drinking water remains a challenge for many areas in Isabela and Cagayan provinces.
He expressed concern over health issues that may arise due to lack of access to clean and safe water.
“The situation is still hard. You can survive for some days without food but not without water,” said Father Sarte.
He said many communities were submerged in floodwaters for some days, creating a huge water problem.
Aside from food aid, the priest is appealing for support to get potable water for the thousands of flood victims.
On Tuesday, the priest appealed to water refilling stations in his parish in Santiago City to donate bottled water.
“My friends in Tuguegarao and Cagayan are asking for potable water… they really need it,” said the priest.
Meanwhile, prices of vegetables and pork in Isabela province have reportedly soared despite a price freeze imposed by the government on areas hit by severe flooding.
Vegetable sellers said they had to increase the prices because they had been buying from suppliers outside the region.
Agriculture Secretary William Dar said the government had implemented a price freeze on agriculture and fishery commodities and basic essential goods, especially in flood-stricken areas.
The National Food Authority also allocated rice assistance to the affected communities.
