President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered government agencies to start rescue and relief operations immediately in the Bicol region, which has been hit hard by Tropical Storm Kristine.
During a briefing at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City, Marcos Jr. instructed the Department of Public Works and Highways to clear all the roads and bridges blocked by debris from landslides.
He also said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) should work with the Department of National Defense (DND) to airlift relief supplies, medical equipment and other essential items if the roads are not passable.
“We can ask the Coast Guard also. The Coast Guard also plays a part in that naman. So, mag-ready na tayo,” the President added.
According to the latesy report from the Office of Civil Defense, heavy rains inundated large areas in Bicol, affecting over 150,000 residents.
In Camarines Sur, local officials noted that 300 out of 600 barangays are flooded due to the ongoing rainfall.
Marcos Jr. also urged agencies to prepare for regions that may be affected next by the typhoon.
“I think we can start with — habang lumalayo na [ang bagyo] sa Bicol — Region 5. Pwede na nating gawin lahat ng puwede nating gawin,” he said.IMT
