PBBM to gov’t agencies: Focus relief operations in isolated areas

By Darryl John Esguerra, Philippine News Agency

During a situation briefing at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Marcos expressed satisfaction over the government’s response so far. (PCO Photo)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday directed government agencies to focus providing assistance in areas that are isolated as Typhoon Carina and the enhanced southwest monsoon or habagat continue to batter parts of the country with heavy rains.

During a situation briefing at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Marcos expressed satisfaction over the government’s response so far.

“I think the response is okay. We just have to keep it up,” he said.

The President then directed the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Office of the Civil Defense (OCD) to continue their relief operations especially those within “critical areas.”

“You [DSWD] work with the OCD so that you can focus your attention on those areas that we will have to service that are presently isolated,” Marcos said.

He also asked the OCD to immediately identify critical areas.

“Importante ‘yun kasi ‘yang mga ‘yan hindi na kumain ng ilang araw. So as soon as possible, dapat naka-ready na ‘yung ipapasok natin because we know that they are the priority —critical ang situation na ‘yan (That is very important because they have not eaten for days. So as soon as possible, our supplies should be ready when we come in because they are our priority. These are critical situations),” he added.

Marcos also reminded concerned government agencies to ensure that people “have everything that they need.”

Earlier, the President said some PHP2.88 billion prepositioned assistance is on standby.

Army assists flood victims

As this developed, the 525th Engineer “Forerunner” Battalion of the Combat Engineer Regiment marshaled two light Urban Search and Rescue (USAR) teams composed of 52 personnel and rescue assets that will be deployed amid the massive flooding in Metro Manila.

According to the Philippine Army, the two USAR teams, as well as four military trucks and four rubber boats, were deployed under the military’s Joint Task Force National Capital Region, which will determine their area of assignment.

Meanwhile, the Philippine Army leadership assured the public of the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Response teams’ operational readiness in assisting typhoon-affected families in close cooperation with national government agencies, local government units, and other responders.

Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil said the PNP is committed to reinforcing its humanitarian assistance, evacuation procedures, and overall emergency response efforts.

“Our personnel are actively deployed across Metro Manila and other impacted areas, working diligently to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents,” Marbil said in a statement.

“We urge the public to stay informed through official channels, adhere to safety advisories, and cooperate with local authorities,” he added.

A total of 5,820 personnel have been deployed as part of Search and Rescue Teams to ensure the safety and well-being of those in need while Metro Manila remains under a red rainfall warning, with moderate to heavy rains causing widespread disruptions.

“Our top priority is the safety and well-being of our fellow Filipinos. We are committed to delivering necessary support and assistance during this challenging period,” Marbil said.

He said the PNP is actively monitoring the typhoon’s impact and maintaining close coordination with local government units and other relevant agencies as all PNP units have been directed to monitor and report any incidents related to Typhoon Carina.

Marbil advised the public to remain vigilant, follow safety protocols, and cooperate with authorities to ensure their safety.

In Central Luzon region, a total of 528 families composed of 1,509 individuals are temporarily sheltered at 34 evacuation centers, particularly in Bataan, Bulacan, and Olongapo City.

Police Regional Office (PRO) 3 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Jose Hildalgo said all commanders in the region have been directed to observe all guidelines while implementing measures to help the affected families.

In southern part of Metro Manila, Southern Police District Director Brig. Gen. Leon Victor Rosete has activated its Search and Rescue Teams to assist residents in the cities of Makati, Pasay, Taguig, Parañaque, Las Piñas, and Muntinlupa as well as the municipality of Pateros.

Rosete said the SPD has identified 142 evacuation centers, with 36 currently occupied, affecting 929 families and 3,278 individuals as of 1 p.m. Wednesday. (With reports from Priam Nepomuceno/Lloyd Caliwan/PNA)