More than 200 individuals from 50 families in Barangay Pamplona Tres, Las Piñas City, were forced to evacuate in the early hours of Wednesday after continuous overnight rains triggered flash floods, submerging homes and streets near the creek.
This situation underscores the importance of knowing what to do before, during, and after an evacuation, especially as the country continues to face extreme weather events. Based on the recent response and lessons from the Las Piñas evacuation, here are some essential tips and reminders:
1. What to Do During an Evacuation
- Stay calm and alert. Listen to barangay officials or local authorities for instructions. Early evacuation saves lives, especially in rapidly rising floodwaters.
- Move quickly but safely. Do not attempt to wade through rushing water. Seek higher ground as soon as advised.
- Help those in need. Prioritize children, the elderly, and persons with disabilities. Community spirit is crucial in emergencies.
- Bring your “Go Bag.” This should include essential items such as drinking water, food, flashlight, extra clothes, basic medicines, and important documents.
During the Las Piñas evacuation, residents like Marissa Varela recounted how floodwaters reached chest-high levels, making it difficult to escape. Prompt response from barangay officials ensured that no lives were lost.
2. How to Secure Your Belongings When You Need to Evacuate
- Unplug appliances and turn off electricity and gas before leaving home to avoid fire or electrical hazards.
- Move valuables to higher places. Place items like documents, electronics, and jewelry in waterproof bags and keep them elevated or take them with you.
- Lock your doors and windows. If time permits, secure your home to deter theft or damage during your absence.
Residents of Pamplona Tres were allowed brief access to their homes to check on belongings under supervision, emphasizing that safety comes first.
3. Do’s and Don’ts During an Evacuation
✅ Do’s:
- Follow official instructions.
- Pack light but smart.
- Stay informed via radio or official social media channels.
- Keep in touch with family and neighbors.
❌ Don’ts:
- Don’t wait until the water rises too high.
- Don’t use flooded roads or bridges.
- Don’t light candles near gas leaks or flammable materials.
- Don’t bring unnecessary items that may slow you down.
4. Emergency Numbers (Cavite and Las Piñas Area)
If you or someone you know is in an emergency situation, contact the following:
- Las Piñas City DRRMO – (02) 8872-1708 local 103 / 0961-571-9696
- Barangay Pamplona Tres Hotline – (02) 8820-0299
- BFP Las Piñas – (02) 8872-1708 local 115
- PNP Las Piñas – (02) 8872-4841
- Philippine Red Cross Cavite Chapter – (046) 416-0340 / 0927-315-9441
- NDRRMC – 911 or 1-1-2 (for PLDT/Smart)
With extreme weather events becoming more frequent, preparation is key. The Las Piñas evacuation effort serves as a reminder of how critical community coordination, awareness, and quick action are during disasters.
Stay safe, stay informed—and be ready.
