Malacañang yesterday condoled with the families of those who were killed in the Batanes earthquakes.
Presidential spokesman Salvador Panelo said they are praying for the speedy recovery of those injured by the earthquakes. “We send our sincerest prayers for the fast and speedy recovery of those who were injured,” Panelo said.
The Palace official reassured that concerned and responsible government instrumentalities have been deployed to assist the people in distressed areas. “The national government has ordered all concerned departments to mobilize and render immediate assistance to those affected,” Panelo said.
He said that President Duterte will visit earthquake victims. Duterte was scheduled to depart his hometown of Davao City at 10:30 a.m. for Batanes yesterday, Panelo said.
“The President is expected to visit the people of Batanes today, assess the extent of damage in the province, and initiate the rebuilding of one of the most treasured destinations of the country,” he added.
Malacañang said Duterte is satisfied with government action on the earthquakes.
Panelo said government agencies readily implemented measures to address the situation.
“Oo he’s satisfied dahil ready din naman tayo ‘di ba,” he said. “Meron tayong mga ahensya ng gobyerno na pinaghandaan ‘yan. Kaya nga kahit na nagkaroon tayo ng mga sakuna eh nagkaroon kaagad ng response ang pamahalaan,” he added.
Panelo said that among the aid extended by the government to the earthquake victims are food and medical assistance.
The Palace official said that the government will work on rehabilitating the distressed areas. “Magkakaroon ng rehabilitation diyan. Pareho ng mga naganap na nung ibang panahon sa iba’t ibang lugar sa Pilipinas. Kung nagkaroon ng earthquake, ng iba pang klaseng sakuna,” Panelo said. (Argyll Cyrus B. Geducos)
