By Paulo Loreto Lim

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Mines and Geosciences Bureau-Region VI (MGB-6) identified several locales across Panay considered to be “critical areas” for landslide and flooding, indicating a vulnerability to the said calamities.

Some of the areas landing on both lists include Libacao, Madalag, Malinao, and Balete in Aklan; Valderrama, Laua-an, Barbaza, San Remigio, Patnongon, Bugasong, Culasi, and Tibiao in Antique; Roxas City, Dumalag, and Pontevedra in Capiz; along with Calinog in Iloilo.

In addition, Jordan, San Lorenzo, Buenavista, Sibunag, and Nueva Valencia in Guimaras were also named on both lists.

According to MGB-6 chief geologist Mae Y. Magarzo, the listed areas were recommended to install proper drainage systems, along with other engineering measures.

Among other local government units considered critical areas for landslides include Malay, Aklan, where resort location Boracay is located; while Kalibo, Aklan and Passi City, Iloilo were named critical areas for flooding./PLL, WDJ