Aquino declares state of national calamity

MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III has declared a state of national calamity in the aftermath of Typhoon Nona (Melor) which inflicted extensive damage and casualties in several areas in the country, Malacañang announced on Friday, December 18.

Palace Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr said in a statement that the President signed Proclamation No. 1186 on Friday, declaring a state of national calamity.

“The declaration of a State of National Calamity will hasten recovery, relief, and rehabilitation efforts of the government and the private sector, including any international humanitarian assistance,” Aquino said in issuing Proclamation 1186.

He added that it would also “effectively control the price and commodities for the affected areas and afford the government ample lattitude to utilize appropriate funds for rescue, recovery, relief, and rehabilitation efforts of,  and to continue to provide basic services to, affected populations, in accordance with law.”

Among the areas that sustained extensive damage because of the storm are the provinces of Albay, Northern Samar, Oriental Mindoro, Romblon, and Sorsogon.

Aquino signed Proclamation 1186 upon the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

The President gave the following directives under the proclamation:

• Departments and other concerned government agencies will implement and execute rescue, recovery, relief, and rehabilitation work in accordance with pertinent operational plans and directives
• All departments and other concerned government agencies will coordinate with, and provide or augment the basic services and facilities of, affected government units
• Law enforcement agencies, with support from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, will undertake all necessary measures to ensure peace and order in affected areas, as may be necessary

The state of national calamity will remain in force until lifted. – Rappler.com