President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday led the distribution of P21 million in financial aid, food, and guaranteed medical services to about 2,100 families displaced by a recent inferno in Isla Puting Bato in Tondo, Manila.
Each victim received P10,000, along with food packs, blankets, and sleeping mats from the Office of the President.
“The biggest need right now is for the houses to be rebuilt. I promised one of the victims at the evacuation center that if you cannot go home by Christmas, I will come here and we will spend Christmas together,” the President said.
He then prodded Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna to prioritize rebuilding the shanties that were razed to the ground.
Speaking at Rosauro Almario Elementary School where many displaced families were temporarily staying, Mr. Marcos highlighted the government’s efforts to address the victims’ immediate needs, including the distribution of food packs designed to sustain a family for several days.
“You have food packs that should last three to four days. But don’t worry—if you use them up in two days, there will be more,” the President said.
“There are many small children and elderly people who need medicine. That’s why cash is necessary, so you can use it for your family’s specific needs,” he added.
He also expressed concern about health risks in overcrowded evacuation centers and announced that medical teams from the Department of Health would remain on standby to provide continuous care.
“The city government is here, and the national government is here. We will keep working to deliver the services you need,” he said.
