President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. has declared a state of calamity in Calabarzon, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) due to the devastation brought by Severe Tropical Storm Paeng.
Under Proclamation No. 84 released on Wednesday, Nov. 2, the state of calamity in the four regions battered by Paeng shall remain in effect for six months unless earlier lifted by Marcos.
The order directed government agencies and private sectors to continue implementing their rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts in accordance with pertinent operational plans and directives.
“All departments and other concerned government agencies are also directed to coordinate with the LGUs to provide or augment the basic services and facilities of affected areas,” it added.
Likewise, law enforcement agencies are instructed to take all necessary measures to ensure peace and order in the four regions.
According to the issuance, the declaration of a state of calamity will fasten the disaster response of government and private sectors, effectively control prices of basic necessities, utilize funds, and continuous provision of basic services to affected populations.
The order also stated that Marcos may “include other areas in the declaration of a state of calamity if warranted, taking into consideration the continuing damage assessment in affected areas based on the recommendation of the NDRRMC [National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council] and the conditions provided by law.”
