Led by former tourism secretary Ace Durano: 5th district disaster teams help Alegria

CEBU, Philippines —  Former tourism secretary Joseph “Ace” Durano led the disaster response teams from different towns in Cebu’s fifth district in helping Alegria town, one of Typhoon Odette’s worst-hit towns in southern Cebu.

“We truly believe in the power of Bayanihan and in these trying times, we’ve proven that collaboration goes a long way. Maski ginagmay nga effort, mudako gyud ang impact basta magtinabangay,” said Durano in a statement adding that he has seen this in their relief efforts right after Typhoon Odette.

Durano and the disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) teams went to Alegria the other day as they extended help to the town, which was still clearing debris and on rebuilding efforts a month after the typhoon struck Cebu and neighboring provinces on December 16, 2021.

“For me, this is the real meaning of Bayanihan. These DRRM personnel from other towns don’t have to come here, but they’re here and are very eager to help and we’re very proud of that,” Durano said.

Durano said that electricity, internet signal, and drinking water remain to be a challenge in the Alegria with a lot of homes destroyed, particularly residences along the coast which have been washed out.

Apart from over 50 rescue personnel, the DRRM teams brought with them clearing heavy equipment, water trucks and rescue truck which they will be using for the next five days.

Alegria was among the 12 towns that initially received P100,000 from Durano as relief assistance and received another P100,000 from Danao City government.

“We initially extended cash since it was difficult to access the southern towns immediately after Odette. But we’re glad that we’re now able to reach this part of the Province and we’ve seen how much help is still needed. During the time sa Yolanda, arang-arang gamay kay adunay ubay ubay nga international aid. Karon mas lisod samotan pa nga pandemya,” Durano added.

The DRRM teams that reported to Alegria came from the towns of Compostela, Catmon, San Francisco, Poro, Pilar and Tudela as well as Danao City.

Danao City was one of the most affected localities by Odette in the northern part of Cebu. Despite the devastating impacts, the city has shown fast recovery efforts and managed to get back on its feet in a week time.

With this development, Danao City Mayor Ramon “Nito” Durano III immediately mandated the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) to reach out to other LGUs in Cebu Province that are still in dire need of help and assistance.

Tuesday night, the DRRMs gathered in Danao City where they were welcomed by former Cebu fifth district congressman Ramon “Red” Durano VI who thanked them in advance for the service they’re extending.

They left for Alegria early Wednesday morning, and immediately set up an incident command post after reaching the town.

Tudela Mayor Greman “Jojo” Solante also joined Durano and the teams in Alegria. They paid a courtesy call to Alegria Mayor Verna Magallon and husband, Vice Mayor Gilberto Magallon.

Last month, Durano’s local organizers from the Cebu fourth district gave gallons of water to typhoon-stricken residents in Mandaue City. — GMR (FREEMAN)