Floodwaters brought by storm Kristine inundate Baoo, Camarines Sur on October 23, 2024. Photo courtesy Oliver Collins

MANILA — Camarines Sur 3rd District Rep. Gabriel Bordado Jr. on Sunday appealed for urgent aid for Bicol residents, saying they are "in desperate need of assistance" following the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.

Bicol is among the provinces hardest hit by Kristine, experiencing unprecedented rainfall and flooding that forced many villagers to seek refuge on the highest floors and roofs of their homes. 

The province also recorded one of the deadliest floods due to Kristine, with at least 29 people killed, according to police data.

"This is the worst flooding our region has faced since 1993. Communities across Camarines Sur are struggling to recover, with so many areas still submerged and out of reach due to a lack of amphibious vehicles," Bordado said in a statement.

Thousands of families fled their homes as Kristine struck the province this week and submerged it under record-breaking rains.

Massive flooding hits Bicol as Kristine dumps record-breaking rains

While government and private groups work to address the needs of residents still reeling from the effects of the storm, the lawmaker stressed that "the crisis continues to strain resources."

"This region is in peril," said Bordado, who also urged the international community to contribute to relief efforts in Bicol.

"We are preparing for further challenges as more storms approach, but right now, we need all the help we can get to save lives and begin rebuilding," he said.

Help coming, Marcos Jr. assures Bicol, other areas hit by Kristine

Flooding due to Kristine was reported in 584 areas in the Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, and CALABARZON and MIMAROPA regions.

Floods were also reported in the Bicol, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, SOCCSKSARGEN, Caraga and Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao as well as in Metro Manila.

A total of 84 cities and towns have been placed under a state of calamity due to the extensive damage caused by the storm.

Storm Kristine leaves 85 dead, dozens missing

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