Seized wangwangs eyed as disaster management tools

Wang-wangs (sirens and blinkers) seized from motorists could be used again but this time as disaster preparedness equipment. Albay Governor Jose Salceda suggested that wang-wangs be used as early warning systems in disaster management. He said the wang-wangs may even be hooked up to transceivers and rain gauges from the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. Salceda said at least 720 villages in his province can use the wang-wangs as early warning systems. Radio dzXL reported early Monday the Philippine National Police (PNP) already recommended the distribution of the gadgets to local governments. However, PNP chief Director General Jesus Verzosa said he is still waiting for the Land Transportation Office to approve the plan. Marikina needs new flood warning system Marikina City in Metro Manila is one of the areas that could use the wang-wangs because its flood warning system broke down since last year. On Monday, Radio dzBB’s Sam Nielsen said Marikina’s flood warning system was destroyed in September last year, when tropical cyclone “Ondoy" (Ketsana) hit Metro Manila. The warning system is particularly useful for residents in four villages near the river – Nangka, Tumana, Malanday, and Concepcion. Aquino against wang-wang Authorities seized several of the wang-wangs after President Aquino, in his inaugural speech last June, said they were symbols of inequality. Aquino rejects using such equipment even in his own convoy. –VVP, GMANews.TV