MANILA, Philippines – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared a state of national calamity in light of the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino and the anticipated threat of the approaching potential super typhoon Uwan.
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| Photo courtesy: RTVM via Presidential Communications Office (PCO) |
The declaration was finalized during a situation briefing with the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City.
President Marcos stated that ongoing rescue and relief operations are being carried out for affected families while preparations for Uwan are being intensified.
He pointed out that Typhoon Tino severely impacted Regions VI, VII, VIII, MIMAROPA, and the Negros Island Region, leaving communities displaced and infrastructure damaged.
The President assured the public that national agencies, local government units, and first responders are coordinating closely to ensure timely assistance.
He explained that the wide scope of affected and at-risk regions led the NDRRMC to recommend the declaration of a national calamity, which he approved.
According to President Marcos, 10 to 12 regions may experience the effects of both Typhoon Tino and Typhoon Uwan, requiring nationwide mobilization of resources.
The declaration will accelerate rescue, relief, and rehabilitation operations while enabling quicker access to calamity funds.
It will also allow faster procurement of emergency supplies by reducing bureaucratic procedures.
The Office of the President has already distributed ₱760 million in financial aid to affected provinces to support relief and recovery initiatives.
Provinces including Cebu, Capiz, Surigao del Norte, Iloilo, Bohol, and Negros Occidental each received ₱50 million to boost local response capabilities.
Other provinces received varying allocations based on the extent of impact and identified needs.
The assistance aims to restore essential services, provide relief goods, and support rehabilitation in severely affected areas.
President Marcos said the government is balancing ongoing response efforts in Tino-hit areas with proactive preparations for Uwan.
He emphasized that timely anticipation, coordinated planning, and strategic deployment of resources can reduce casualties and minimize damage.
The President reaffirmed that safeguarding lives and ensuring swift recovery remain the government’s top priorities.
— The Summit Express