Number of quake-affected families in Batangas nearly 22,000

MANILA—The number of people affected by the April 8 magnitude 5.7 earthquake that struck Batangas has now climbed close to 22,000, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) announced Tuesday.

At least six persons were hurt in the quake.

NDRRMC executive director Ricardo Jalad identified the wounded as Leonardo Magnaye, who injured his arm after he was hit by pieces of shattered glass in Mabini, Batangas; Jerry Macuha, Maribel Aguado, Narding Castillo, and Diana Basca, who all sustained abrasions; and Mario Dimaala who suffered a cut on his left arm. The latter five are residents of Tingloy, Batangas.

Jalad said some 5,528 families or 21,549 persons have been affected by the tremor, 2,139 families or 10,917 individuals of whom have been served and have taken temporary shelter in 45 evacuation centers in the province.

The affected families are from Batangas City and the towns of Mabini, San Luis, San Pascual, Taal and Tingloy.

Jalad said as of Tuesday, a total of 796 damaged houses were reported in Batangas, 97 of which were totally damaged and 699 were partially damaged.

The NDRRMC chief said a total of PHP1.59 million worth of assistance has been provided to the affected families.

Meanwhile, 50 tents worth PHP644,000 were delivered to the Batangas Medical Center, local government units and other affected areas.