President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally visited flood-affected families taking refuge at the Maly Elementary School Evacuation Center in San Mateo, Rizal, yesterday, just hours after his return from an official trip to the United States. His visit underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to providing immediate relief and support to communities impacted by natural disasters.
The President’s presence brought a sense of comfort and hope to the evacuees, who expressed profound gratitude for his personal attention and the timely assistance provided. Jocelyn Paman, a 56-year-old evacuee, shared her appreciation with the Presidential News Desk, stating, “Malaking bagay po sa amin ‘yan kasi malaking tulong din po ‘yung naipapaabot niya sa amin. Kahit papaano nakakaraos naman po kami rito.” She added, “Nagpapasalamat po kami nang marami sa Pangulo natin na binigyan niya po kami ng ganito kahit papaano mairaraos po namin ang pang-araw-araw namin dito sa school. Kahit mahirap po nakakayanan naman po kami, nakakaraos naman po kami.”
Another evacuee, Riah Serafin, conveyed her joy at seeing the President. “Para sa amin, masaya kasi nabisita kami ng pangulo kasi bihira lang naman mangyari sa buhay namin ‘yung ganoon,” Serafin remarked, highlighting the significance of the visit. She also voiced a common hope among the evacuees for continued assistance, especially as many are currently unable to work. Rosalia Dulay, a senior citizen, noted that the aid would help them save money during these challenging times, stating, “Makakatipid kami ngayon.”
During his visit, President Marcos Jr. personally inspected the distribution of relief assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The aid packages included essential family food packs, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, family water filtration kits, and ready-to-eat meals, crucial provisions for families displaced by the floods.
According to a DSWD report as of 4:00 a.m. on July 24, a total of 546 families, comprising 2,102 individuals, are currently seeking shelter at the Maly Elementary School Evacuation Center.
President Marcos Jr.’s swift response and direct engagement with the affected families reaffirm the government’s dedication to ensuring the well-being and recovery of its citizens in times of crisis, providing timely relief and comprehensive care for those in need.
