Bacolod assesses families living under bridge

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The city government has mobilized a multiagency task force to assist and assess seven families living under Lupit Bridge in Barangay 39 after heavy rains damaged several makeshift homes Thursday night.

Mayor Greg Gasataya ordered the immediate deployment of personnel from the Department of Social Services and Development, Bacolod Housing Authority, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, City Health Office, and City Legal Office.

The task force will conduct a joint on-site inspection with barangay officials and rescue volunteers from Barangays 39 and Taculing.

DSSD records show that more than 20 people live beneath Lupit Bridge.

The residents include nine children ages 4 to 14.

Among those rescued was a 60-year-old stroke patient whose makeshift home was partially damaged by strong water runoff.

He was immediately taken for a medical checkup as part of the city’s emergency response.

Despite the danger, his family reportedly chose to remain in the area because of livelihood concerns and the proximity of their grandchildren’s school.

Gasataya said relocating the families to the city’s relocation site in Barangay Vista Alegre may take time.

He said families living in high-risk areas would be prioritized for rescue, assistance, and eventual transfer to safer and more permanent housing.

The City Health Office will assess the residents’ health conditions, particularly those of the children.

The Bacolod Housing Authority will process the requirements needed to help provide the families with safe housing.

The city government continues to coordinate with concerned agencies to ensure the families receive immediate assistance while long-term relocation plans are finalized.