Kalayaan Hall, Malacañan Palace
October 25, 2024

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. convened with various government officials to discuss the intensified relief efforts and receive the latest updates on the effects of Severe Tropical Storm ‘Kristine’ during a situation briefing at the Kalayaan Hall in Malacañan Palace.

Various government agencies discussed their prompt actions in response to the devastation caused by Severe Tropical Storm ‘Kristine’ and to swiftly deliver assistance to those in need. These actions included the deployment of frontline personnel, implementing price control on selected goods, deployment of vehicles/logistics to evacuate affected people, road clearing operations, providing health services and financial aid, rebuilding damaged houses and infrastructures, restoration of electricity, monitoring the conditions of ports and recovery programs for the agriculture sector.

The Department of Health (DOH) emphasized that the suspension of classes and work enabled the government to effectively deliver relief and ensure public safety.

To address the funding for relief operations in the hardest hit areas, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) outlined the allocated budget intended to support local and regional government offices in meeting the immediate needs of affected communities.

Furthermore, the Chief Executive issued a directive to adopt a more effective approach to rebuilding devastated roads, establishments and electrical systems, ensuring they are resilient against damage from future storms and remain functional in the years to come.

“We’ll just have to keep monitoring the situation and ensure that rescue and relief efforts cannot stop… It doesn’t matter if there’s another storm coming; that cannot stop,” President Marcos Jr. stated.

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