By Junex Doronio
MANILA – In response to the urgent need to assist victims of Typhoon Kristine, Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez has expressed full support for the House Quad Committee’s decision to cancel its scheduled hearing on Thursday, October 24, 2024.
He emphasized the importance of allowing lawmakers to focus on helping their districts recover from the devastating effects of the storm.
Romualdez underscored the need for government officials, particularly members of the House of Representatives, to be on the ground, providing direct support to their constituents in these critical times.
“We welcome the decision of the Quad Comm as announced by Chairman Ace Barbers. Ang atensyon dapat natin ngayon ay kung paano makakatulong sa ating mga kababayang nasalanta ng bagyo,” Romualdez said.
“This will allow our representatives to be where they are most needed – among their people, providing immediate aid and relief. In moments like this, we must set aside our legislative duties to prioritize the welfare of our fellow Filipinos,” added the leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives.
Romualdez also highlighted the swift action of the House, reporting that Congress has mobilized P411 million in aid to communities severely impacted by Typhoon Kristine. This demonstrates the institution’s capacity to act decisively in times of calamity.
“This financial assistance is just the beginning of our efforts to help our kababayans recover from this disaster as instructed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.,” he said.
“The resources we have mobilized reflect our commitment to respond promptly and with urgency to the needs of those displaced and affected by Typhoon Kristine. We are doing everything we can to ensure that help reaches the most vulnerable,” he continued.
As part of this initiative, Romualdez facilitated the immediate release of P390 million in cash aid to 22 districts affected by the typhoon in the Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, CALABARZON, and MIMAROPA, along with four party-list representatives.
Additionally, House Deputy Secretary General Sofonias “Ponyong” P. Gabonada Jr. announced that the Offices of the Speaker and Tingog Party-list are preparing 2,500 relief packs per representative, totaling 62,500 packs worth over P21 million. These will be distributed to families affected by the typhoon through the Speaker Disaster Relief Funds.
Gabonada also mentioned that a separate relief mission is being prepared by Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co, chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations.
Romualdez called for unity across sectors, particularly the private sector, to assist those affected by the typhoon.
“Ngayon ang tamang panahon para magkaisa tayo bilang isang bansa, kailangan nating lahat magtulungan. Bayanihan ang sagot dito. We call on every Filipino, from all sectors, to contribute what they can to support those in need. The recovery and rebuilding process will take time, and everyone’s participation is vital,” he said.
Romualdez emphasized the importance of a “whole-of-nation approach” to rebuilding lives and communities, which requires collaboration between government, the private sector, NGOs, and citizens. “Together, we can get through this,” he added.
He also reassured the public that the House of Representatives will continue monitoring the situation and is prepared to allocate additional funds or pass necessary legislation for disaster relief and recovery.
“Rest assured, we are ready to provide further assistance if needed. We are constantly coordinating with national and local agencies to ensure sustained relief efforts,” the Speaker vowed.
“Sa mga pamilyang nawalan ng tirahan at kabuhayan, palagi kayong nasa aming mga dasal. The House of Representatives, along with the entire nation, stands with you. We are ready to assist in any way we can,” Romualdez said.
ia/mnm