Whirlwind hit Banga village in South Cotabato

KORONADAL CITY - At least 11 houses made of light materials were destroyed by a whirlwind during light down pour in Barangay Cinco, Bangsa, South Cotabato the other day.A tornado struck at past 3 p.m. in Purok Liberty, Roces, Francisco andBonifacio in Barangay Cinco. Residnets said a mild rain occurred in the afternoon followed by a strong wind that turned into whirlwind and swept through several houses.Three of the houses were totally damaged. Pepito Dumalogdog whose house was hit by a toppled Acaciatree could only sigh in relief when none of his family members were injured during the calamity.A back hoe was needed to remove the fallen tree from the roof of Dumalogdog's house. Donessa Alvarez sought help from villagers so she can get out of her home where the main door was blocked by debris.The local government of Banga is extending agricultural and financial aid to the victims. Disaster officials said the cost of damages was placed at about P75,000.