The town of Ajuy in the province of Iloilo is now under a state of calamity due to “the ongoing energy emergency affecting the area.”
The state of calamity declaration, approved by the Sangguniang Bayan, was announced by Mayor Loida Espinosa on Tuesday evening, March 31.
Espinosa said the declaration was recommended by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (MDRRMC).
According to the MDRRMC, essential services, including transportation and livelihoods, have been impacted by rising fuel prices.
The declaration allows the local government to swiftly mobilize resources and implement urgent disaster and recovery measures.
Before the municipal declaration, three barangays — Tagubanhan, Punta Buri, and Nasidman — had already declared a state of calamity.
Espinosa “strongly encouraged” her constituents to “help conserve energy and fuel” by limiting the use of electricity to essential needs only, reducing fuel consumption whenever possible, avoiding unnecessary travel, and practicing carpooling or opt to walk when feasible
“Your cooperation is very important as we work together to manage this crisis. Let us all do our part to support the community during this challenging time,” the mayor said.
Last week, President Bongbong Marcos declared a state of national energy emergency in response to the Middle East conflict, which caused oil prices to soar.IMT
