President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday visited the typhoon-hit province of Catanduanes to assess the damage left by ‘Pepito’ and oversee relief operations.
Accompanied by key cabinet officials, President Marcos assured residents that the government would continue providing support until affected communities recover.
“Do not hesitate to reach out if there are still unmet needs,” President Marcos told residents. “We are here to ensure that you recover and rebuild from this disaster.”
He noted the widespread destruction caused by the typhoon, which brought winds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour, tearing roofs off buildings and flattening homes built with light materials.
The President announced that food packs were being distributed to evacuees and displaced families, each box containing enough supplies to sustain a household for three days.
He pledged that food assistance would continue without interruption, stressing that the government would ensure no family is left behind during the recovery process.
Cash aid was also distributed to residents under the Department of Labor and Employment’s emergency assistance program.
The President addressed the urgent need to rebuild homes and public infrastructure. He revealed plans to provide construction materials, including roofing sheets, lumber, nails, and tools, to families whose homes were partially or fully destroyed.
Financial assistance will also be given to those undertaking reconstruction.
During the visit, Mr. Marcos also met with local officials and members of his cabinet, including Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan and Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to coordinate ongoing disaster response efforts.
In addition to addressing housing and food security, Mr. Marcos assured farmers and fisherfolk that the government would provide support to restore their livelihoods.
The Department of Agriculture will evaluate the damage to crops and fishponds and deliver aid as necessary.
