Gov’t priority: evacuees’ health, power and communications

MANILA, Philippines – Malacañang will prioritize the health and safety of people displaced by Typhoon Glenda (Rammasun) and the restoration of power and communications lines cut off by the storm, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said on Wednesday, July 16.

“Our priorities at this point are the health and welfare of evacuees, and the return of power and communications to communities,” Lacierda said.

He said President Benigno Aquino III, who had cancelled his scheduled engagements on Wednesday, has been monitoring developments on the typhoon.

“The President is monitoring the situation as the NDRRMC, DPWH, MMDA, DSWD, with the PNP and AFP attend to evacuees, the surveying of vital infrastructure, and the clearing of roads,” Lacierda said. 

The Cabinet official also cited the cooperation among the public, media, and national government agencies “to ensure preparations were in place, and information disseminated effectively and in a timely manner, during the approach and progress of the storm.”

Lacierda noted initial reports that indicate zero casualty in many areas.

“We ask the public to continue monitoring media and online resources to keep updated on the weather and advisories concerning cleanup and restoring services,” he said.

Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson said in an interview with PTV-4 on Wednesday that his department will focus on the rehabilitation of areas hard-hit by the typhoon, in coordination with local officials.

“Our countrymen can expect a return to normalcy with the help of the LGUs and the national government,” Singson said.

Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Soliman estimates that at least 338,000 people have been displaced by Typhoon Glenda but gave her assurance that the government has prepared enough supplies to help them.

The Manila Electric Company reported that around 86% of its customers have no power, and could not say when power would be restored in these areas. – Rappler.com