Cayetano thanks responders for quick aid during Taal eruption

House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano (Photo from his office)

MANILA, Philippines — House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano thanked the local governments and first responders in the areas affected by the eruption of Taal Volcano for “taking immediate precautionary measures to ensure the safety and security of our constituents.”

In a statement issued on Monday, Cayetano said: “On behalf of the House of Representatives, in partnership with the Duterte Administration, we are assuring our kababayans who are directly affected by this natural calamity that we are ready to provide our support and assistance.”

“Together, let us pray for the safety and protection of our people especially those within the danger areas near the Taal Volcano,” he added.

He also stressed the urgent need for Congress to pass the measure creating the Department of Disaster Resilience, which would be the lead agency in charge of providing emergency response to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, floods and volcanic eruptions.

“Meanwhile, let us continue to monitor the developments and coordinate with our respective local government units related to the eruption of the Taal Volcano,” he said. “We appeal for national unity amid these challenging times and vigilance in the face of possible effects of the said volcanic activities.”

/atm, gsg