Albay recovery efforts gain momentum with nat’l gov’t

By Aaron A. Cotejar

LEGAZPI CITY --- Albay acting governor Glenda Ong-Bongao expressed gratitude to the national government and disaster response teams for their unwavering support in the province’s recovery efforts following the impact of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.

“We are grateful to everyone who is helping, the national government and all those showing intention and commitment to assist the Province of Albay in recovering our province,” Bongao said, acknowledging the crucial role of national support in the province’s recovery.

Bongao specifically thanked President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for his visit on October 26 and the P50 million financial assistance provided for the province’s recovery efforts.

The provincial government has allocated a total budget of P23 million from its quick response funds to address community needs, including P9.5 million for relief services, P5 million for health, P2 million for agriculture, P4.5 million for logistics, and P2 million for other unforeseen expenses.

Bongao reaffirmed her commitment to disaster response, rehabilitation, and recovery efforts for her constituents.

“We assure all the people of the Province of Albay that we are getting there immediately; we are already focused on disaster response, disaster rehabilitation, and recovery,” she added.

According to Cedric Daep, former head of the Albay Provincial Safety and Emergency Management Office, the provincial government will begin rehabilitation plans in November 2024, aligning them with national standards.

Daep emphasized the importance of damage assessment, a process that began two days after the typhoon hit the province.

Relevant government agencies will assist in identifying critical programs needed for recovery, further strengthening the province’s efforts to rebuild and recover from the storm’s impact. (PIA Bicol)