Tacloban city: The offices of former Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez and Tingog Party-list Representative Jude Acidre on Tuesday spearheaded an expanded relief effort for families in Baybay City, Leyte, and Silago, Southern Leyte-two areas in Eastern Visayas severely affected by Typhoon Tino.

According to Philippines News Agency, Romualdez and Acidre ordered the immediate inclusion of these two local government units (LGUs) in their relief operations following reports from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) indicating that both Baybay City and Silago experienced severe damage from strong winds and heavy rains.

Romualdez emphasized the resilience of the people in these areas and expressed the importance of providing them with immediate support to aid in their recovery and rebuilding efforts after the storm. Meanwhile, Acidre detailed the dispatch of essential supplies to the affected communities, including 3,750 kilograms of rice, 30 boxes of noodles, 10 boxes of biscuits, 10 boxes of coffee, 20 boxes of bottled water, and 30 boxes of canned goods to Baybay City, while Silago received 2,500 kilograms of rice, 20 boxes of noodles, 10 boxes of biscuits, 10 boxes of coffee, 20 boxes of bottled water, and 20 boxes of canned goods.

Acidre highlighted that these relief goods symbolize their commitment to assist every family affected by the typhoon, ensuring them that they are not alone in their recovery journey. He also noted that Tingog Party-list, along with Romualdez and the LGUs, continue to coordinate logistical support for subsequent waves of assistance, prioritizing the delivery of aid to the farthest communities in need.

On Monday night, Romualdez announced proactive measures taken by Tingog and his office, including the prepositioning of rice and essential relief goods across Tacloban City and seven municipalities in Leyte to provide immediate support to families affected by Typhoon Tino. Initial stocks were delivered to Palo, Tanauan, Tolosa, Sta. Fe, Alangalang, San Miguel, and Babatngon as part of their preparedness efforts.

Additionally, the offices of the two lawmakers distributed hot meals to evacuees at various evacuation centers in Tacloban City on Monday afternoon as part of their ongoing relief and readiness operations.