DPWH-Bicol helps in clearing, rehabilitation in Samar, Leyte

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In the aftermath after the super storm Yolanda pummelled many areas of the country, Team Bicol stand as one in offering an immediate helping hand.

It can be said of the personnel of the Department of Public Works and Highways Bicol regional office. They are now on their seventh day of helping in the clearing and restoration operations in the typhoon-stricken Eastern Visayas, more particularly in Guiuan town in Samar and in Tacloban City, according to DPWH spokesperson Lucy Castaneda.

The agency has put into disposal the usage of 10 dump trucks, one payloader, four service vehicles, 17 chainsaws, eight generator sets, 12 tents and 67 personnel composed of equipment operators, drivers, mechanics, electricians and laborers.

One among the earliest responders, quick at forming the team, the first batch came into Samar in the morning of November 10. Road maintenance equipment was brought into the port of Allen in Samar from Matnog on day 2. The contingent was led by Catanduanes District engineer Romeo Doloiras and Engr. Elmer Rodrigo from the regional office.

In the afternoon, Regional Director Danilo E. Dequito followed, bringing with them packs of relief goods that poured in from officials and employees of the DPWH regional office and various engineering district offices.

“People here also need candles, matches or lighters, flash lights with battery packs and if possible, surgical masks because the odor is becoming unbearable,” said Dequito in a phone call from Tacloban City.

Dequito had served two years in Region 8 as assistant regional director.

Dequito said the team will stay and work in these areas until directed to return to Legazpi City.

“We have seen on TV the sufferings of the typhoon victims, so we are intensifying our efforts to ease their burden, not only in infrastructure rehabilitation but also in providing foods and other stuffs for personal survival,” said DPWH V Assistant Regional Director Ronnel M. Tan. (from PNA report)

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