De Lima motivates ‘Usman’ victims in Bicol

MANILA, Philippines — Detained Senator Leila de Lima on Tuesday urged her fellow Bicolanos who were displaced by Tropical Depression Usman last December to summon enough courage and kindness.

“I appeal for fortitude in the face of this calamity and beseech the kindness of everyone to pray for our kababayans and lend support if able,” De Lima said in letter written from her detention cell.

“I am saddened by tragic news that befell our region, particularly the severe flooding that submerged many areas, including Rinconada,” she added.

Latest information from the National Disaster Risk Reduction Council (NCRRMC) said that ‘Usman’  left 126 dead and at least 26 missing.

Most of the casualties are from the Bicol region, where more than 109 bodies were found.

In Buhi, Camarines Sur alone, 22 have been confirmed dead due to landslides.

Damage to agriculture was estimated at P4.2 billion.

READ: Landslides raise ‘Usman’ death toll to 126  | Death toll in landslide-hit Camarines Sur town rises to 22; 5 still missing

De Lima, who hails from Iriga City, Camarines Sur, also asked people to look after those who lost relatives and friends due to the calamity. /gsg