President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the distribution of various aid to towns and families affected by the recent onslaught of severe tropical storm Kristine in Batangas. On Monday, the province received ₱60 million, with each town—Talisay, Agoncillo, Balete, Cuenca, Lemery, and Laurel—allocated ₱10 million from the Office of the President.
Moreover, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) distributed ₱10,000 to farmers and fishermen severely impacted by the disaster.
In partnership with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, Marcos also distributed materials to nearly 160 families whose homes were damaged in the town of Talisay.
They received galvanized iron sheets, plywood, planks, and nails that can be used for repairing their damaged homes.
In his speech, Marcos emphasized the directive to government agencies to further strengthen disaster preparedness and response efforts to prevent the loss of life during future calamities in the country.
"Totoo na mas matindi ang mga bagyo ngayon. Mas malawak, mas malakas, mas mabilis ang pagbabago. Kaya inuulit ko ang mga kautusan sa mga ahensya ng pamahalaan," said Marcos.
He further stated that he ordered the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to improve its warning system to provide timely alerts about the dangers posed by storms.
Marcos also instructed the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to ensure effective and accurate communication with local governments so they can be prepared when disasters strike.
Moreover, the DILG's program, Operation Listo, continues to strengthen disaster preparedness among local government units (LGUs) for better readiness, response, and monitoring during emergencies.
