Ako Bicol Party-List, in partnership with House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, has launched an extensive relief and rescue operation across Bicol, following the devastation of Typhoon Kristine, reaching thousands in need of immediate assistance.
Romualdez answered Ako Bicol’s call for aid by dispatching 20 rubber boats, outboard motors, and essential rescue equipment, which were delivered via a C130 military aircraft.
The shipment, which arrived at the height of search and rescue operations in Bicol, included life vests, life buoys, traction ropes, and rope-throwing bags to strengthen local rescue efforts.
“These tools were vital as we faced severe flooding that displaced thousands of our kababayans,” Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co said in a press release Oct. 27. “We are deeply grateful for Speaker Romualdez’s prompt action.”
The rescue equipment and tools were distributed to key agencies, including the Camarines Sur local government, the 9th Infantry Division, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the PNP Maritime Group, significantly boosting their capabilities in conducting rescue missions across heavily affected areas.
Ako Bicol Party-List also distributed over 18,000 food packs across the region, with 12,218 provided, in coordination with the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and 5,793 sourced from Ako Bicol’s resources. The distribution reached 19 barangays, mainly in Albay, Camarines Sur, and Sorsogon, benefiting families in critical need.
Also, 500 blankets and 2,000 modular evacuation tents were delivered to support displaced residents. Hot meals and clean water were also served to over 800 individuals, including 20 families in Malilipot, 500 individuals at Tabaco Port, and 642 people across various areas in Sorsogon.
As the storm exited the Philippine area of responsibility, Ako Bicol mobilized heavy equipment, including bulldozers, backhoes, and dump trucks, to clear blocked routes, like the Sagnay-Tiwi Road, to restore vital access for relief operations.
“Kristine” left a swathe of destruction in its path and killed at least 85 people, as of press time. ||
