Acting Transportation Secretary Giovanni Lopez, leading a rapid assessment team, immediately ordered the expedited repair and restoration of transport infrastructure in Catanduanes following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Uwan, fulfilling the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure transport operations are immediately returned to normal.
The inspection team, which included Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) General Manager Jay Santiago, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) Director General Raul Del Rosario, and Deputy Director General Danjun Lucas, first assessed the Bicol Airport and Pio Duran Port before traveling to Virac, Catanduanes.
Upon inspection of Virac Airport, Secretary Lopez ordered CAAP to repair a damaged ceiling portion of the Passenger Terminal Building (PTB) caused by the typhoon’s strong winds. The CAAP management reported that thanks to pre-typhoon guard installations by airport personnel, major damage was averted, and repairs on the ceiling are expected to be completed within one week.
“In accordance with the President’s directive, we immediately inspected the condition of our airports and ports, to see if there are any damages and to assess the extent of the damage, if any. So that we can take immediate action and get it done,” said Acting Secretary Lopez, emphasizing the government’s commitment to minimizing disruption.
Ports and Humanitarian Aid
Secretary Lopez and PPA General Manager Santiago proceeded to San Andres Port, where no structural damage was recorded. PPA personnel quickly secured buoys that had been washed away by the strong storm surge.
In addition to restoration efforts, Secretary Lopez assured Catanduanes Governor Alan Patrick Cazanza of the government’s comprehensive assistance. The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) immediately deployed 10,000 family food packs as part of the ongoing relief operations. Furthermore, the PCG’s water purification unit is being activated to provide safe and clean drinking water to affected residents.
Looking ahead, the PPA is concurrently studying the possibility of constructing a new and modern Passenger Terminal Building at San Andres Port to further enhance resilience and capacity for the province.
The DOTr and its attached agencies remain committed to the swift and safe recovery of all transport facilities affected by Super Typhoon Uwan.
