President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. arrived in the Capitol Building of Catanduanes on November 19, 2024 (Photo from Catanduanes Government Facebook)
VIRAC, Catanduanes (PIA) – Catanduanes local government leaders and typhoon victims expressed deep gratitude to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. for his swift response to the devastation caused by Typhoon Pepito. During the visit, the President oversaw the distribution of P50 million in financial aid to Governor Joseph Cua, supplementing direct aid of P5,000 to 1,000 identified beneficiaries.
Governor Cua highlighted the national government’s rapid response, stating, “Despite the sadness, the national government’s aid, starting with the DSWD and culminating in the President’s visit, brings us joy. We felt the national government’s attention, aid, and support firsthand.”
San Miguel Mayor Francisco Camano Jr. described the near-total destruction of abaca crops, the town’s primary livelihood. He emphasized the depletion of local government resources, stating, “Only the national government, under President Bongbong Marcos, can provide the aid, solutions, and hope for our recovery.” He expressed optimism about collaborative recovery efforts.
Caramoran Mayor Glenda Aguilar emotionally praised the President’s personal visit, viewing it as a significant step towards recovery. Panganiban Mayor Cesar Robles thanked the President for prioritizing housing reconstruction, while San Andres Mayor Leo Mendoza commended the President’s on-site assessment and the community’s success in preventing fatalities.
Governor Cua also acknowledged the crucial roles of uniformed personnel, barangay police, mayors, and MDRRMOs in proactive evacuations that prevented casualties. The provincial government reported 3,716 totally damaged and 10,713 partially damaged houses across 11 towns, affecting 39,549 families (137,440 individuals). (PIA5)
