Palace: Local governments lead response to Storm Enteng’s onslaught

FLOODED ALL OVER Tropical Storm “Enteng” has left many areas in the country’s main northern island inundated, from Talaba village (left) in Bacoor, Cavite, to the streets of Naga City in Camarines Sur. — RICHARD A. REYES AND JARVIS IVAN SADIUA/CONTRIBUTOR

MANILA, Philippines — Local government units (LGUs) are still leading the response to Tropical Storm Enteng’s onslaught and the national government is ready to help “in whatever way it can,” the Palace said on Tuesday.

The same directive also applies to the landslide in Antipolo, Rizal which killed two minors and a pregnant woman, according to Presidential Communications Office’s spokesperson for natural calamities and disasters Joey Villarama.

“LGUs will take the lead but of course, the national government will be there to assist in whatever way it can,” he told Malacañang reporters after being asked if President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has new directives on those affected by Enteng, including the landslide in Antipolo.

READ: Marcos on effects of Storm Enteng: Gov’t on top of situation

Marcos on Monday said all concerned government agencies are monitoring the movement of Enteng while all affected LGUs are already addressing its effects within their respective areas of responsibility.

The President also said his office is monitoring affected areas “as a whole,” committing the release region-wide, island-wide, or nationwide advisories as quickly as possible.

He also said standard operating procedures are already in place and are being followed amid the onslaught of Enteng.