Defense OIC Usec. Jose Faustino said the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is finalizing a proposal for the declaration of a national state of calamity as tropical storm Paeng leaves with a trail of casualties and damages to properties, agriculture and infrastructure.
Faustino, who also chairs the NDRRMC, said the recommendation has been sent to President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. in compliance with the President’s directive to submit a resolution for the declaration.
The Defense chief joined an aerial survey in the Calabarzon region on Sunday, Oct 30 and observed the receding floodwaters in most areas especially Cavite.
Joining the aerial inspection were Special Assistant to the President Secretary Anton Lagdameo, Social Welfare Secretary Erwin Tulfo, and Interior and Local Government Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr.
Faustino said President Marcos has directed the immediate deployment of potable water and water purifying systems to BARMM, the restoration of power in affected areas prioritizing hospitals and evacuation centers, the activation of pre-positioned satellite communications equipment, clearing of impassable roads and temporary replacement of damaged bridges including medical rescue missions and other assistance.
Sec. Lagdameo said they would next visit BARMM, where floods were finally easing, to assess damage and bring relief materials.
“The President is in constant communication,” Sec. Tulfo said adding President Marcos Jr.’s concern for hard-hit areas and the conduct of on-going relief operations in CAR, Bicol, Maguindanao and Cotabato.
Sec. Tulfo added that relief supplies pre-positioned in LGUs could not be safely distributed earlier due to flooding. The DSWD will also extend Assistance for Individuals in Crisis aid. (PIA-PMD)
