Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday thanked the government of Singapore for its assistance to the victims of Severe Tropical Storm “Kristine.”
He particularly acknowledged the role of the Singaporean Air Force assets in delivering critical aid to the hardest-hit communities.
He expressed gratitude to Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Ambassador to the Philippines Constance See for sending a C-130 aircraft to help reach thousands of Filipino families affected by “Kristine.”
“The aid they sent, especially the C-130 aircraft from the Singapore Air Force, will enable us to deliver relief goods to the areas that were severely affected by the typhoon,” he said.
The Singapore Armed Forces deployed a C-130 transport aircraft to assist in distributing humanitarian aid supplies, particularly in the Bicol region.
Romualdez noted that this gesture underscored the strong bilateral relationship between Singapore and the Philippines, highlighting the importance of regional cooperation during times of crisis.
He also emphasized that aid from Singapore significantly boosts ongoing relief operations led by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s administration, the House of Representatives, and other government agencies.
“We truly appreciate this gesture. Singapore is a true friend of the Philippines,” he stated.
The House of Representatives has been actively involved in relief efforts, having previously mobilized over P411 million in financial aid to 22 districts and four party-list groups affected by the typhoon.
This expanded assistance includes additional funds and relief goods, such as 2,500 relief packs per representative, provided in partnership with the Office of the Speaker and Tingog party-list.
Romualdez stressed the importance of international support in addressing the scale of the disaster that displaced over 2.6 million people.
He also reassured the public that Congress would remain steadfast in supporting recovery and rebuilding efforts.
“We will not stop helping until we have reached out to all those in need. We assure you that financial aid and relief goods will be provided,” he said.
The Ako Bicol Party-list, in partnership with Romualdez, earlier launched an extensive relief and rescue operation across Bicol following the devastation caused by “Kristine.”
Romualdez responded to Ako Bicol’s call for aid by dispatching 20 rubber boats, outboard motors, and essential rescue equipment delivered via a C-130 military aircraft, along with relief goods.
He also noted the House of Representatives’ swift action in responding to the ongoing crisis, reporting that Congress has mobilized close to P500 million in assistance to communities severely affected by the typhoon, demonstrating its ability to act decisively during calamities.
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