Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expects local officials to be on the ground, not on vacation, when calamities strike, Malaca±ang said Tuesday amid reports that several local chief executives went abroad during the onslaught of Super Typhoon Uwan and Typhoon Tino.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro stated that the President is against officials relaxing while their constituents are facing crises. “Hindi po niya gusto na ang mga liderato ay chill-chill lang (The President does not want leaders who are just chill),” Castro emphasized during a Palace briefing. She further noted the importance of officials dedicating their efforts to the public, especially in dire situations.

Castro mentioned that the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) will determine whether there will be investigations into the conduct of officials who left their posts during the twin storms. The DILG had previously issued reminders for governors, mayors, and other local leaders to remain in their areas and lead response operations as Super Typhoon Uwan, one of the year’s strongest storms, hit Luzon.

Despite these reminders, reports have surfaced indicating that some local executives, including mayors from Cebu and the governor of Isabela, proceeded with their overseas trips. Castro reiterated the President’s stance, stating, “Hindi puwedeng chill chill lang parati dahil kailangan trabaho, trabaho – hindi bakasyon (You can’t always be chill; this is a time for work, not vacation).”