President Marcos Orders Focus on Flood Crisis
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed clear disappointment over government personnel who misplaced their priorities during the recent disaster. Even while abroad, he emphasized the urgent need to concentrate efforts on disaster response rather than on preparations for the upcoming State of the Nation Address (Sona).
According to a statement from Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, the President was “dismayed” upon learning that some government workers were busy installing Sona-related materials in public spaces while many communities battled severe flooding caused by the southwest monsoon (habagat).
Immediate Suspension of Sona Preparations
“Let me be clear: all Sona-related preparations are hereby ordered immediately suspended,” Bersamin said. He added that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), along with other agencies, must dedicate all their resources and attention to flood response and relief operations.
“The President’s directive is to focus all efforts on ensuring the safety and welfare of the Filipino people, especially during times of crisis. All government agencies are expected to act accordingly,” the statement emphasized.
Flood Impact and Ongoing Weather Concerns
The directive came after reports surfaced that DPWH personnel were installing tarpaulins featuring the President for his Sona along major roads in Manila, despite the ongoing emergencies.
Marcos is scheduled to deliver his fourth Sona on July 28 at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City, marking the opening of the 20th Congress’s first regular session.
Recent data from disaster management authorities revealed that over 1.266 million Filipinos, or about 362,465 families, have been affected by the persistent heavy rains and flooding across all 17 regions. Luzon and the Visayas remain the hardest hit.
Damage to agriculture has reached an estimated ₱54 million, with Mimaropa suffering over ₱44 million in losses. Infrastructure damage totals approximately ₱413 million, including ₱299 million in the Ilocos Region and ₱112.8 million in Western Visayas.
Weather Updates and Future Threats
As the country continues to recover from Severe Tropical Storm Crising, which exited on July 19, the Philippine weather bureau is monitoring two low-pressure areas within the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). One of these systems is expected to develop into a tropical depression by Wednesday.
Forecasters warn that the two weather systems could either dissipate separately or combine into a single tropical cyclone, potentially worsening the situation.
Authorities and agencies are urged to remain vigilant and prioritize disaster response to safeguard affected communities.
For more news and updates on government priorities, disaster response, and weather alerts, visit Filipinokami.com.
