Masbate city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has committed to continuous relief and recovery initiatives for Masbate, which has been declared a state of calamity due to the severe impact of Tropical Storm Opong. During a visit to the Nursery Elementary School in Masbate City, Marcos emphasized the government’s dedication to aiding affected residents.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos assured the citizens of Masbate that assistance would persist until all displaced families and communities have fully recuperated from the devastation caused by Opong. The storm severely damaged infrastructure, disrupted livelihoods, and hindered access to essential services. In his address, Marcos stated, “Do not worry, you will not be left behind. Even though the storm is over, your government is still here. We will not leave until all evacuees, all those affected by the typhoon, are back on their feet and have recovered.”
During the aid distribution event, approximately 600 families received PHP10,000 each under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) in Region 5 (Bicol) also provided financial support by handing over two checks totaling over PHP34.8 million to the Masbate provincial government, benefiting 6,455 individuals under the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged Workers (TUPAD) Program.
Marcos supervised the distribution of additional financial assistance, TUPAD payouts, and support from the government internship program by the DOLE. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) contributed family food packs, hygiene kits, malongs, 10-meter laminated sacks, and water filtration kits. The Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) provided ‘chari-timba’ or pails filled with grocery items, while the Philippine Red Cross offered hot meals and mobile kitchen services. Additionally, Marcos handed over two Starlink units to the Nursery Elementary School.
“We have cash assistance because every family has different needs. So, this won’t be the only form of help we provide,” Marcos explained, highlighting the government’s tailored approach to aid distribution. He reiterated the administration’s ongoing commitment, stating, “As I mentioned, don’t worry, we are here, and whatever you need – food, medicine, cash, or anything else – we are here to help you.”
Marcos lauded local governments for their proactive measures in ensuring residents’ safety and emphasized the importance of expediting the rehabilitation of damaged infrastructure, particularly school buildings. He acknowledged the destruction of approximately 806 classrooms and committed to their restoration within a month. Despite challenges in power restoration, Marcos noted that generator sets have been deployed to critical facilities like hospitals.
Furthermore, Marcos urged patience among displaced residents during the recovery process and assured them of continued support. He directed the Department of Budget and Management to release PHP100 million from the Local Government Support Fund to aid Masbate’s rehabilitation efforts.