Romualdez on Roxas: Let’s not dwell on ‘Yolanda’ shortcomings

Senatorial candidate Martin Romualdez

Asked about the performance of former Interior Secretary Mar Roxas in the aftermath of Supertyphoon “Yolanda,” senatorial candidate and Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez on Wednesday said the public should veer away from pointing out shortcomings.

In an INQLive interview, Romualdez said no preparations could have been sufficient for what was dubbed the strongest typhoon to ever hit land in history.

“We rather not dwell on shortcomings. Nobody could have prepared for this adequately,” Romualdez said.

Romualdez is a cousin of Tacloban City Mayor Alfred Romualdez, who has widely criticized the Aquino administration for alleged politicking amid rehabilitation efforts. The mayor, a nephew of former First Lady Imelda Marcos, had a spat with Roxas during a meeting after the Yolanda onslaught, which was caught in a viral video.

Romualdez earlier said Roxas “risked his life” to save lives at the height of Yolanda and recognized the administration candidate’s role in government response and rehabilitation. The lawmaker issued the statement in April when the Liberal Party ticket campaigned in his province, particularly in the areas struck by the typhoon.

“Politics should never raise its ugly head in calamities,” Romualdez said, noting that Filipinos should not forget the lessons and best practices from the disaster.

“We all know where we came up short and where can improve,” he added.

Asked about Roxas’ candidacy, Romualdez only has this to say: “He’s the administration candidate and that’s his prerogative to run. We wish him the best of luck.”

Romualdez is seeking a Senate seat as an independent candidate. RC