Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Thursday expressed full support for the Quad Comm’s decision to cancel today's scheduled hearing, stressing the importance of allowing lawmakers to focus their efforts on helping their districts recover from the devastation wrought by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.
Speaker Romualdez stressed the need for government officials, including members of the House of Representatives, to be on the ground offering direct support to their constituents during 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,” Speaker Romualdez said.
"It 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," the leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives added.
He also highlighted the House of Representatives swift action to respond to the ongoing crisis, reporting that Congress has mobilized P411 million to assist the communities severely affected by the typhoon. This demonstrates the institution’s ability 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 help reaches the most vulnerable," he continued.
As part of this operation, Speaker Romualdez facilitated the request for the immediate release of P390 million in cash aid, which will be distributed to 22 districts affected by the typhoon in the Bicol Region, Eastern Visayas, CALABARZON and MIMAROPA, as well as through four party-list representatives.
Additionally, House Deputy Secretary General Sofonias “Ponyong” P. Gabonada Jr. said the Offices of the Speaker and the Tingog Partylist have been preparing 2,500 relief packs per representative for a total of 62,500 packs worth over P21 million through the Speaker Disaster Relief Funds, to be distributed to families affected by Kristine.
Gabonada said Ako Bicol Partylist Rep. Zaldy Co, chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations, is also preparing a separate relief mission.
Speaker Romualdez called for unity across sectors to respond to the disaster, especially those from the private sector who can aid those affected by the severe tropical storm.
"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 expressed.
"We need a 'whole-of-nation approach' to rebuild lives and communities. This includes government intervention and collaboration from the private sector, NGOs and ordinary citizens. Together, we can get through this,” Speaker Romualdez said.
He also reassured the public that the House of Representatives will continue to monitor the situation and will not hesitate to allocate additional funds or pass legislation necessary for disaster relief and recovery.
"Rest assured that we are prepared to provide further assistance should the situation escalate or more help be needed. We are constantly coordinating with national and local agencies to ensure that relief efforts are ongoing and sustained,” Speaker Romualdez said.
“Sa mga pamilyang nawalan ng tirahan at kabuhayan, palagi kayong nasa aming mga dasal. The House of Representatives, along with the whole nation, stands with you. We are ready to assist in any way we can."
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