Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the government of Singapore for their generous assistance to the victims of Typhoon Kristine, particularly the invaluable role of the Singaporean Air Force assets in delivering critical aid to the hardest-hit communities, a press release from the House of Representatives said.
Romualdez thanked Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Ambassador to the Philippines Constance See in sending a C-130 aircraft to help in the efforts to reach thousands of Filipino families affected by the Kristine, which has caused widespread devastation across the Philippines.
The Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) deployed a C-130 transport aircraft to assist in the distribution of humanitarian aid supplies, particularly in the Bicol region, one of the areas most affected by Typhoon Kristine.
This gesture, according to Romualdez, underscores the strong bilateral relationship between Singapore and the Philippines and highlights the importance of regional cooperation during times of crisis.
He noted that the aid from Singapore is a significant boost to the ongoing relief operations led by the administration of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and the House of Representatives as well as other government agencies.
Romualdez also emphasized the importance of international support in addressing the scale of the disaster caused by Typhoon Kristine, which has displaced over 2.6 million people.
He also reassured the public that the House will remain steadfast in supporting the recovery and rebuilding efforts.
Earlier, Ako Bicol Party-list, in partnership with the Speaker, had launched an extensive relief and rescue operation across Bicol following the devastation of Typhoon Kristine, reaching thousands in need of immediate assistance.
Romualdez answered Ako Bicol’s call for aid by dispatching 20 rubber boats, outboard motors, and essential rescue equipment, which were delivered via a C130 military aircraft, and distributing relief goods.
The shipment, which arrived at the height of search and rescue operations in Bicol, included life vests, life buoys, traction ropes, and rope throwing bags to strengthen local rescue efforts.
Romualdez also highlighted the House of Representatives’ swift action to respond to the ongoing crisis, reporting that Congress has mobilized close to P500 million in assistance to the communities severely affected by the typhoon, demonstrating the institution’s ability to act decisively in times of calamity.*
