SUBIC BAY FREEPORT – The Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) sent a six-man team composed of personnel from its Fire Department to help in rescue operations in Ilocos Norte, as Super Typhoon Egay continues its onslaught.

The Ilocos Norte Rescue Operation of the SBMA will be conducted alongside the Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Emergency Response Unit (ERU) after the province of Ilocos Norte came under Signal No. 3., prompting the provincial board to place the province under a state of calamity.

The group brought along rescue equipment such as pelican lights, Petzl helmets, chainsaws, paddle, jerry cans, spine board, life vests, rescue buoys, ropes and pulley for water search-and-rescue operations.

The provincial government of Ilocos Norte said the declaration of state of calamity in the province will enable it to mobilize resources swiftly and efficiently to assist affected residents.

The Ilocos Norte Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) reported that the province has suffered heavy rainfall, flooding, power interruptions and road blockages.

The office is continuing its assessment of the extent of Super Typhoon Egay’s damage as of presstime. 