December 23, 2021

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte continued his inspection of areas severely devastated by Typhoon ‘Odette’ (international name: Rai) as he visited Puerto Princesa City in Palawan.

The President checked the condition of the affected people and led the ceremonial distribution of relief goods in a simple program.

In his message, the Chief Executive apologized to his ‘kababayans’ due to the delay in government’s response following the massive devastation wreaked by Typhoon ‘Odette’. He gave his assurance that he was able to raise an amount of PhP10 billion that will be given to all the typhoon victims, apart from the assistance that will be extended by other government agencies. He also asked for their patience as they await the assistance that will be provided by his office and the rest of the concerned national government agencies.

According to an initial report by the Palawan Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Typhoon ‘Odette’ damaged between 70-80 percent of infrastructure, both public and private properties in the Province, downed power and communication lines, displaced thousands of families and killed several people.

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