Sorsogon City, October 23, 2024 – In a commendable display of community solidarity, Sorsogon State University (SorSU) has provided shelter for over 280 evacuees from flooded barangays of Sorsogon City (Salog, Polvorista and Almendras-Cogon). Among those seeking refuge are 63 SorSU students who are stranded or currently residing in nearby dormitories and boarding houses.
In response to the severe flooding caused by Typhoon Kristine, the university’s Technology Building, Education Building, and Laboratory High School Building were opened on October 22, 2024, to accommodate not only SorSU students but also residents from neighboring barangays impacted by the disaster. This initiative was made possible through collaboration between the offices of the university president and the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO), in coordination with local officials from Barangay Salog.
Last night, under the direction of DRRMO’s Dir. Saturnino C. Carranza and Coordinator Engr. Eric E. Floresca, rescue missions were conducted to assist students trapped in their boarding houses due to the flood and heavy rain. The efforts ensured that those in need received timely assistance during the crisis.
Faculty members across the university, particularly class advisers, played a crucial role in disseminating information. They coordinated with student organizations (SorSU Supreme Student Council-Sorsogon City) and utilized class group chats to encourage students living in flood-prone areas to evacuate as early as 1:00 PM on October 22.
This morning, university officials, led by Dr. Ryan V. Dio (VP for Research, Extension & Training), Dr. Jhonner D. Ricafort (VP for Academic Affairs), Dr. Telesforo D. Escoto (Campus Director-Sorsogon City Campus), and Dr. Orlando D. Doncillo (Dean, College of Technology), along with BTVTED faculty and student-volunteers led by Dr. Fely A. Habla, NSTP coordinator and instructors, ROTC volunteers and university faculty and personnel, conducted relief operations that included a feeding program providing free breakfast and snacks to the evacuees.
University President Dr. Geraldine F. De Jesus has been actively monitoring the situation, offering guidance and instructions to ensure the well-being of all affected individuals.
The Pamantasang May Puso remains committed to providing support and shelter to those affected, exemplifying the resilience and unity of the Sorsogon community in the face of adversity. (SorSU PIO)
Photo credits: From various SorSU faculty and volunteers