Around 500 students currently residing at the Visayas State University (VSU) in Baybay City, Leyte were forced to evacuate last Tuesday, August 26, following flooding inside the campus after heavy rains.
According to the VSU Crisis Management Committee, several dormitory occupants and students from low-lying areas were transferred to university classrooms late evening of August 26 until midnight for their safety.
The evacuees are temporarily housed at the Faculty of Management and Economics (FME) building.
Continuous rainfall due to southwest monsoon, compounded by local thunderstorms, caused flooding not only within VSU but also in nearby communities where students and employees reside.
Reports from some residents confirmed rising water levels in Patag, Guadalupe, Pangasugan, and other flood-prone areas.
VSU suspended classes and work last Wednesday, August 27, due to the effects of the flooding.
The university administration, together with the University Supreme Student Council, plans to distribute food and drinking water to evacuated students to support their immediate needs while waiting for conditions to improve.
University officials advised residents of dormitories in higher grounds to stay indoors, monitor official advisories, and avoid unnecessary movement in flooded areas.
Meanwhile, students staying in boarding houses were urged to prepare essential supplies such as drinking water, dry clothes, flashlights, and important documents in case further evacuation is needed.
(With report from PIA)
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