NDRRMC: ARMM flood problem worsens

The flooding problem in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) has worsened due to continuous heavy rain in the area, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said. In its Sunday update, the NDRRMC said floodwater levels increased by one foot overnight, prompting the clearing and de-clogging of five hectares of water hyacinths at Taviran Bridge in Mother Kabuntalan, Maguindanao. "Government agencies, local government units and the private sector have joined efforts to create an opening of waterways in the Mother Kabuntalan side to clear Butilen River, which is estimated to last three to four days," it said. It said the number of affected towns had increased from eight to 13, with an additional 11,905 displaced families, but no further details were immediately available. Earlier this week, the NDRRMC said rain and accumulation of water hyacinths along the waterways of Buluan Lake since 19 September caused the overflowing of Rio Grande de Mindanao, Buluan River and Alah River. As of Friday night, the NDRRMC said the affected families include: