1 dead, 1 missing in Cam Norte flash floods

MANILA, Philippines - One fisherman was reported killed while a resident was reported missing in the wake of flash floods that hit Camarines Norte province in Bicol, a radio report said early Monday. Radio dzBB reported that Camarines Norte Governor Jesus Typoco Jr said at least 10 houses were washed away in Camambugan village, while houses were underwater in Labo village. The fisherman was not immediately named but was described as a native of Mercedes town in Camarines Norte. Power outages were reported in several parts of Daet town, whose drinking water was contaminated and reported to be "rust-colored." Flash floods caused by heavy rains since last week also forced the evacuation of residents in several areas in Daet. Daet Vice Mayor Serafin Raymundo said at least 63 residents had been brought to the provincial capitol while others were brought to schools and evacuation centers. The report said areas affected by floods included Barangays 1 to 4, San Isidro, Camambugan, Mambalite, Pasig, Magang, Pamorangon and Mancruz. Raymundo said the National Disaster Coordinating Council and the Army are helping in rescue work. However, he said some residents refused to leave their homes and farm animals, he said. On the other hand, he said floods in some areas were so high that they were inaccessible to rescue workers. At least three bridges had been rendered impassable due to flooding, the report said. These include the bridge in Labo, and Daet Bridges 1 and 2. Vehicles from Metro Manila were diverted to Sipocot town in Camarines Sur province. - GMANews.TV