Province on alert due to Agaton as floodings reported

Even as it was downgraded into just a tropical depression, “Agaton” caused floods forcing local government units to suspend work and classes today.

In the capital city of Bacolod, the City Schools Division of the Department of Education has ordered the suspension of face-to-face classes in seven schools as moderate to heavy rains continue to pour.

Suspending work and classes were the town of EB Magalona, Talisay City, Cadiz City, Victorias City and Silay City,

Mayor Renato Gustilo of San Carlos City only suspended classes in the city, while Toboso Mayor Richard Jaojoco announced that municipal employees are still required to report to work.

The Philippine Coast Guard has suspended sea travel from Escalante City to Tabuelan, Cebu and San Carlos City to Toledo City, Cebu.

Meanwhile, trips between Iloilo and Bacolod City continue.

The PCG also reported a total of 259 stranded passengers as of 1pm, today.

A total of 160 passengers were stranded in Escalante Port, 33 at the Sagay Port and 57 at the
San Carlos City Port.

The water level of the Malihao River in Victorias City exceeded its spilling level at 12 feet after it reached to 14 feet as of 1:40pm.

Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said that it will be the call of local chief executives.

There is no storm signal over the province, Lacson said, adding that “it makes it more difficult to alert the rescue teams of the province.”

But, he reminded Negrenses that the province is under red alert status.* (EYA)