SAN MARCELINO, Zambales — A composite team of rescuers and residents set up an improvised supply line across the swollen Sta. Fe River on Tuesday, Aug. 11, to deliver relief supplies to residents of Barangay Sta. Fe, which had been isolated after its only bridge was damaged.

The operation involved personnel from the Bureau of Fire Protection, Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority Fire and Rescue Team, Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, Philippine Coast Guard, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and Barangay Sta. Fe officials.

SBMA Fire Chief Ranny Magno said rescuers used a Swift Water Anchor System to establish a secured rescue line across the river, which had become deeper and faster due to days of rain brought by Typhoon Maymay and the southwest monsoon, locally known as Habagat.

The swift-water rescue operation was conducted to allow rescuers and other personnel to safely cross the river despite its strong current.

The team also used a rubber boat to cross the river and set up an improvised zipline to serve as a temporary transport line for relief supplies to the isolated community.

The operation delivered 75 sacks containing 1,000 relief packs for about 800 residents of Barangay Sta. Fe.

San Marcelino Mayor Elvis Soria thanked the responders, frontliners, local government officials and employees, and partner agencies for their continued efforts to assist residents affected by the disaster.

“This showed the importance of swift coordination, cooperation and dedication among responders to ensure that government services continue despite the challenges caused by flooding and the damaged bridge,” Soria said.

Soria also assured residents that the municipal government would continue to monitor the situation in Sta. Fe and take necessary measures to provide assistance and services to the affected community. (Ang Pahayagan Reportorial Team)

Photos courtesy of SBMA Fire Chief Ranny Magno