MMDA assist Ilocos Norte’s recovery after typhoon

By Leilanie G. Adriano

Staff Reporter

Laoag City—At least 28 trained personnel of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) came to Ilocos Norte on Sept. 24 to assist Ilocanos in their recovery efforts after typhoon “Mario” pummeled the province last week.

Riding on a convoy of a closed van and a six-by-six military truck, Roy Gonzales, MMDA mission in Ilocos Norte team leader said they brought along with them 15 units of generator sets, chainsaw, flood lights, including carpentry workers and electricians to help out in the restoration of hard hit areas in the province.

Mr. Gonzales said they will be in the province until everything returns to normal.

On Sept. 23, the team composed of people from the MMDA Rescue Group and the Metro Parkways Clearing Group were tasked by MMDA Chairman Francis N. Tolentino to help in the clearing operations and restoring the roofs of at least four elementary schools including the restoration of lighting of government buildings such as the Provincial Capitol, City Hall, police stations, and churches.

On the morning of Sept. 24, the MMDA group first proceeded to Nueva Era in the north eastern part of the province where at least 89 houses were totally damaged and power is still being restored in some isolated barangays.