Legazpi City: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday distributed over PHP50 million in financial assistance and government services to farmers and fisherfolk affected by Severe Tropical Storm (STS) Kristine in Albay. The aid was part of a broader effort to support communities impacted by recent climatic events in the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Office of the President, through the Department of Social Welfare and Development, has allocated PHP50 million in financial aid for the three cities and 15 municipalities of Albay, one of the hardest-hit provinces when STS Kristine unleashed record rainfall from October 21 to 25. During the aid distribution event at the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation in Legazpi City, President Marcos announced that PHP10,000 would be provided to each farmer to help them re-establish and grow their livelihoods.

The President also distributed financial assistance to various beneficiaries, including 1,000 in Libon, 900 in Oas, 400 in Guinobatan, and several
hundred others across multiple municipalities and cities in Albay. In addition to financial aid, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) provided a Training Support Fund of PHP3,413,700 to 1,162 beneficiaries from Albay to support skill development.

Earlier in the day, President Marcos led a similar aid distribution ceremony in Pili, Camarines Sur, providing over PHP50 million in financial assistance there as well. This visit to the Bicol region was part of his ongoing efforts to ensure immediate relief for those affected by the calamities. In total, Marcos has released PHP130 million in financial assistance across the region.

In a media interview after the event, President Marcos emphasized the importance of assisting those whose livelihoods have been disrupted, particularly farmers and fishermen who have suffered significant losses due to the storms. He noted the extensive damage to crops and fish pens observed during his earlier visit to the region.

Meanwhile, the National Disas
ter Risk Reduction and Management Council reported that aid extended by the government, local government units, and non-government organizations to families severely affected by STS Kristine and Super Typhoon Leon has reached PHP1,235,208,653.38. Approximately 522,639 families across 16 regions have received assistance, with a total of 2,255,968 families affected, comprising 8,871,190 individuals in 12,287 barangays across 17 regions. The storms have resulted in 151 reported deaths, with only 20 confirmed, and 131 injuries, with 10 verified. Additionally, 21 individuals are reported missing. The estimated damage to agriculture stands at PHP5.3 billion, while infrastructure damage is estimated at PHP8.4 billion.