CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro -- Mines  and  Geosciences  Bureau  (MGB)  MIMAROPA  Region  geologists presented before the local officials of Palawan the findings of its investigation into the widespread flooding in Brooke’s Point and other municipalities in the south.

This is in response to the invitation of the Committee on Environmental Protection and Natural Resources of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Palawan as it launched an inquiry into the heavy flooding incident, the request for moratorium on extractive activities in Southern Palawan, and other issues in relation to the additional application of Ipilan Nickel Corporation for tree- cutting permit.

During the February 2 committee hearing, MGB MIMAROPA Chief Geologist Dr. Edwin M. Mojares and Geologist Merari B. Rosaroso presented evidence from the latter’s field investigation in Brooke’s Point last January 10-12.

The  MGB  MIMAROPA  Region  geologists  explained  that  based  on  the investigation, the saturated ground and extended heavy rainfall caused the flooding in the downstream communities of Brooke’s Point, with or without mining tenement claims in the upstream areas.

The findings reveal that the extended heavy rainfall increased surface runoff towards downstream, thus, overflowing the river systems and increasing the susceptibility of landslides in mountainous area.

The investigation recognizes other factors that may increase flooding susceptibility such as size and shape of the watershed; river morphology; sedimentation/siltation of natural waterways; construction of artificial waterways and irrigation canals; and changes in land cover in the upper part of the watershed due to deforestation, uncontrolled kaingin, and other land use conversion.

Mr. Rosaroso also cited the importance of recognizing the alluvial fan landform and the geohazards associated with it.

Lastly, the geologists highlighted the need for strengthened collaboration of all stakeholders in disaster risk reduction and management activities, especially in creating an early warning system for affected communities. (MGB MIMAROPA)