Marcos shrugs off critics of visit to storm-hit Bicolandia

Philippine Coast Guard rescue residents in Sitio Libas, Barangay Maguiron, Guinobatan, Albay, October 23, 2024. (PHOTO COURTESY OF PCG / FILE)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. stressed that a typhoon does not recognize political rivalry in response to those questioning his recent visit to the storm-ravaged Bicol region, where a former election rival is eyeing a local position.

“Some are reacting because I went to the region of our opponent during the presidential election,” Marcos said in Filipio in a PBBM vlog released on All Saints’ Day.

“Well, the storm is there. The storm does not recognize elections. So wherever there is a problem, and help is needed, we will go,” he added.

Last October 26, Marcos visited flood victims in evacuation centers in Bula town and Naga City in Camarines Sur.

Former Vice President Leni Robredo, who challenged Marcos in the presidential race in 20222, is running for Naga city mayor next year.

In the vlog, Marcos said that the government would continuously work until the victims of Severe Tropical Storms, Kristine and Leon, get back on their feet.

He added that they will also work on improving response to the challenges brought by climate change.

“First, to reduce casualties in every disaster; second, to decrease the number of people and families affected; and third, to protect small communities and their livelihood,” he said.

Kristine exited the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) last October 25, but left damage to infrastructure and agriculture and caused widespread flooding and loss of lives.

Meanwhile, Leon left PAR early Friday morning, November 1 and is no longer directly affecting any part of the country.