The medical staff and patients at the Abra Provincial Hospital rushed outside as a 7.3-magnitude earthquake hit the province on Wednesday morning. The quake damaged the hospital. (Photos from Facebook page of Abra Vice Gov. Jocelyn Bernos)
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. will immediately visit earthquake epicenter Abra province once an “all clear” signal is given, the Palace announced Wednesday.
Press Secretary Trixie Cruz-Angeles disclosed this following a strong earthquake that hit Abra and other parts of the Luzon region.
“[Pres. Marcos] will immediately fly to the area as soon as the ‘all clear’ is given. The President and the First Family are all unharmed,” Cruz-Angeles said in a press briefing.
Asked if the President is only planning to visit Abra for now, Cruz-Angeles said: “It will depend. Will make an assessment first. He will go to all those areas where it is necessary, that his presence will be necessary.”
Marcos may also cancel certain appointments scheduled on Wednesday to focus on responding to the earthquake, said Cruz-Angeles.
“Right now, nakatutok siya sa ating disaster relief and response (he is focused on our disaster relief and response). The President will most likely put this as his priority and will most likely might cancel certain appointments,” Cruz-Angeles said.
In a tweet, Marcos said the government is ensuring that quick response and assistance is provided to those affected by the earthquake.
“Sa kabila ng nakalulungkot na mga ulat tungkol sa pinsalang dulot ng lindol, ating sinisigurado ang maagap na pagtugon sa mga pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayang apektado ng sakunang ito,” he added.
(Despite the saddening reports regarding the damage of the earthquake, we are ensuring that we quickly respond to the needs of our affected countrymen.)