ALABEL, Sarangani -- Governor Rogelio "Ruel" D. Pacquiao visited the areas affected by the heavy rainfall on July 14, which caused flash floods that hit several households in the different barangays in Alabel town.

Together with Governor Pacquiao were Board Member Joseph Calanao and Provincial Administrator Atty. Ryan Jay R. Ramos.

They went to Barangays Maribulan, Ladol and Bagacay where some of the areas identified have been immensely affected by the calamity.

The team also went to Alabel municipal gym and Barangay Ladol gym, where, according to Provincial Social Welfare and Development officer Raquel Panal, around 60 families were initially relocated.

Pacquiao encouraged and reminded the affected families that "karong panahon sa tag-ulan, kinahanglan gyud ta maging vigilant ug magbantay sa atong palibot aron makaandam especially kadtong naa sa flood prone areas."

He added that the provincial government will assess the flooded areas and families to determine what is needed.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development regional office (DSWD XII) initially distributed a total of 500 food packs, 500 sleeping kits, and 10 modular tents to the affected families while the provincial government of Sarangani distributed 100 sacks of 25 kilos of rice.

Rene Punzalan, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management officer, said the assessment of the damage is now underway.  (Joshua John Pantonial/SARANGANI PROVINCIAL INFORMATION OFFICE)