State of calamity in Ilocos Norte due to quake

SAN FERNANDO CITY, La Union, Philippines — The provincial board of Ilocos Norte approved on Thursday a resolution declaring a state of calamity in the province due to the damage caused by a magnitude 6.4 earthquake that hit Northern Luzon on Tuesday.

Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc signed the resolution, which will allow the provincial and municipal governments to use their calamity funds to address the needs of their constituents.

Manotoc said damage to agriculture and infrastructure due to the quake was initially placed at P128 million. A total of 111 barangays in 15 towns and the cities of Laoag and Batac were affected.

He said the quake destroyed 56 houses. Thirty-four persons were reported injured.

Provincial administrator Yvette Leynes said the declaration of a state of calamity can also be used to request assistance from the national government.

On Oct. 17, a state of calamity was declared in the province due to the damage caused by Typhoon Neneng.

Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo recently led the distribution of financial assistance and relief goods to affected residents.