Feria claims one life in Catbalogan, Samar

By NINFA B. QUIRANTE (PIA Samar)
June 30, 2009

CATBALOGAN, Samar  –  While the family of Ronald and Marlon Canamor rejoices over the return of their next of kin, the family of Lolo Patricio Jaromay grieves over the life of their 77 year old father/grandfather in New Mahayag, Catbalogan.

The brothers Canamor from Libucan Isle were rescued by FB Sto Niño which was cruising past the boys to seek refuge from the turbulent seas when they spotted the two whose fishing boat Amihan had already capsized.

Meanwhile, according to Catbalogan Social Welfare and Development Officer (MSWDO) Nida Arosa, the 77 year old grandfather had his neck broken by a tree branch as Feria raged on breaking tree branches and twigs.

As of press time, Arosa said it was the only casualty her office has recorded.

Reports that reach Catbalogan were flash floods in Sitio Sto Niño, San Andres killing livestock, damaging houses, furniture and appliances.

The rampaging waters also brought with it tons of debris and mud that extremely soiled the belongings of residents in the low lying areas.

On June 24, the MSWDO distributed emergency family food packs to residents victimized by Feria. Some 393 families availed of a pack consisting of noodles, 3 kilos rice and 4 canned goods.

The provincial government through the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) as instructed by Governor Mila Tan also distributed some two thousand pieces of family food packs.

Arosa said that damages to crops have also been reported in the uphill barangays and she is worried that for the next few months hunger will grip the poor farmers uphill in San Andres, New Mahayag and San Vicente.

There were also reports of destruction of fish pens and mussel farms in nearby Jiabong town.