Abalos deploys MMDA teams with water purifiers to Davao, Caraga

Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos announced on Thursday that Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) purification teams will be deployed to assist flood and landslide-hit areas in Davao and Caraga regions.

An MMDA team of 30 personnel arrived in Davao City on Thursday, bringing with them 60 units of solar-powered water purifiers capable of filtering 180 gallons of water per hour.

During a meeting presided over by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Abalos highlighted the importance of clean water access and suggested dispatching MMDA teams to affected areas.

President Marcos ordered the immediate release of PHP265 million in financial assistance for victims, sourced from his office, and praised local officials for their quick response using the 'Operation Listo' manual.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported that approximately 1.12 million people were affected by floods and landslides caused by a low-pressure trough.