By Lou Ellen Antonio

TUBOD, Lanao del Norte (PIA) -- Flood-affected residents here are thankful for the relief assistance given them after the flooding caused by heavy rain spawned by the trough of the low pressure area, January 2.

Josephine Galleto of Brgy. Palao recounted her struggle with keeping her family from evacuating their home. She also thanked the local government unit (LGU) for sending help to their community during the disaster.

"Sa among nasinatian nga kalisod gikan sa pagsugod sa sige'g ulan, sige'g baha, hantod naa na'y landslide, among gi-suffer. Everytime manlakaw mi, dal-on ang bata. Layo-layo gyud siya then mahadlok mi sa agianan kay nag-landslide pud. Sa pagkakaron, dako kaayo akong kasalamat nga diin naa'y naabot nga tabang diri para sa mga biktima sa landslide," she said. 

(In the hardships we experienced from the start of continuous rain and continuous floods until there was a landslide, we suffered. Every time we evacuate, we take our children with us. We traveled far, then we were afraid of the road because there was a landslide. At this moment, I am very grateful that help has arrived here for the victims of the landslide)

Meanwhile, Barangay Caniogan Chairperson Danilo G. Liporgo said they are very thankful to LGU Tubod and the provincial government for helping them. 

Cristily Gaje, a resident of Barangay Barakanas, shared how the flood washed out and damaged their appliances, clothes, school supplies, and other items at their homes.

"Dili gyud diay lalim kung ang kalamidad muhasdang nato. Karon ako nagpasalamat nga kami natabangan nga duna mi nadawat nga hinabang," she said. 

(It is not easy to get affected by a calamity. Now, I'm thankful that we received help)

Moreover, Barangay Barakanas Chairperson Lanie Gaje said a lot of houses were affected, even the computers and notebooks at their school. She also conveyed gratitude to LGU Tubod for extending assistance to them.

The LGU Tubod has distributed relief goods to about 8,000 individuals or 3,000 affected families. Nunungan LGU also provided 250 relief items. Individuals, organizations, and other stakeholders also extended help by giving relief goods, used clothing, and other items to the affected residents. (LELA/PIA-10/Lanao del Norte)