President Marcos on Friday barnstormed across Nueva Vizcaya, Isabela and Pangasinan provinces to check on the progress of relief operations and assess damage to infrastructure caused by a recent barrage of typhoons.
In Nueva Vizcaya, the President announced an initial P50 million from the Office of the President (OP) to aid recovery efforts in the region.
Additionally, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) allocated P2.5 million for its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, which will provide P5,000 in cash assistance to 500 beneficiaries.
“We’re here to ensure that supplies are sufficient and distribution is efficient,” Mr. Marcos told storm-weary residents.
Apart from the aid distribution, the chief executive also directed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to prioritize the rehabilitation of the Bambang Bypass Road, which sustained an estimated P15.5 million worth of damage from Super Typhoon Pepito.
The bypass road suffered damage in two key sections, threatening its structural integrity.
He instructed DPWH Secretary Manny Bonoan to assess the situation and create a robust rehabilitation plan, emphasizing the importance of immediately restoring the crucial bypass road.
“We have seen the extent of the damage, particularly in flood control structures, and Secretary Bonoan is working on a plan to strengthen these so they can withstand future typhoons,” Mr. Marcos said.
Nueva Vizcaya has been hit hard by recent typhoons, with 77 road sections and 32 bridges affected across the province.
The president also stressed the need for sustained government support for affected families, especially those displaced or in evacuation centers.
Typhoon Pepito, part of a series of storms dubbed “KLMNOP,” caused extensive damage to homes, infrastructure, and crops.
To aid recovery, the government also provided food packs, cash assistance, and agricultural supplies, including seedlings and fertilizers, to help farmers recover.
The chief executive acknowledged the contributions of the private sector in relief efforts, expressing gratitude for their support.
“We are grateful for the compassion of businesses who continue to help our people during these challenging times,” he said.
Later on Monday, the President flew to Isabela where he praised the resilience of residents who have endured six consecutive typhoons this year.
During his brief visit, Mr. Marcos distributed Certificates of Land Ownership Awards (CLOAs) and Certificates of Condonation with Release of Mortgage (COCROMs) to local beneficiaries.
“We recognize the perseverance of our countrymen here in Isabela and across the nation who are striving to recover from the devastation caused by successive typhoons,” Mr. Marcos told gathered residents.
The President assured them that the government remains committed to the rehabilitation of typhoon-hit areas, highlighting farmers as a key priority of his administration.
