President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced on Wednesday, October 23, that rescue boats and other critical assets are being dispatched to the Bicol region, where many residents have been left stranded due to severe flooding caused by Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami).
During a briefing at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) headquarters, Marcos confirmed that rubber boats are being sent from as far as Mindanao to aid in rescue efforts, particularly in heavily flooded areas of Camarines Sur, Albay, and Naga City.
“We are now beginning to mobilize our assets, such as rubber boats, which we will be bringing from as far as Mindanao to the areas in need,” Marcos said. He added that trucks will be used to deliver supplies, as helicopters cannot be deployed due to the weather conditions.
The president addressed calls from former Vice President Leni Robredo, who urged for more rubber boats in Bicol. “Yes, as soon as we can get in. We’ll be doing that,” he responded.
Marcos assured the public that the government’s standard operating procedures are in place, and departments are coordinating to preposition goods and equipment ahead of the storm’s landfall. Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro is also recommending the suspension of work and classes in key areas to keep roads clear for disaster relief efforts.
In addition, Marcos directed agencies to monitor dams to avoid the uncontrolled release of water, referencing past incidents in Cagayan Valley. “Let’s anticipate… Let’s not wait for the levels to reach the maximum,” he warned.
As the storm continues to intensify, the Armed Forces of the Philippines is on high alert, ready to activate disaster relief sites across the region.
