President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. today reassured the Filipino public of the government’s unwavering commitment to addressing the needs of communities affected by widespread flooding, exacerbated by the enhanced southwest monsoon. His assurance came upon his return from a three-day official visit to the United States.
“Amidst this calamity, your government prioritizes the safety, health, and welfare of every Filipino,” President Marcos stated. “We are continuously responding to the effects of the heavy rains and flooding caused by the ‘Habagat’ across various parts of the country.”
The President emphasized that various government agencies are working closely with local government units (LGUs) to conduct ongoing rescue and relief operations, ensuring affected families receive timely support.
With the nation experiencing heavy rains from two tropical storms and the enhanced southwest monsoon, President Marcos urged Filipinos to cooperate with authorities, heed weather advisories, and evacuate to safer areas when necessary.
President Marcos also extended his gratitude to the U.S. government and its people for their warm hospitality during his visit and for their pledge of support to communities affected by the southwest monsoon. The Philippine government has specifically requested assistance from the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command for ongoing relief operations in areas hit by severe tropical storm “Crising.”
During a press briefing following his meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, President Marcos highlighted the crucial role of Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) sites in coordinating relief efforts. These sites have facilitated the rapid deployment of aid to communities impacted by floods and landslides.
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr., who was also present at the press conference, confirmed that relief goods have been prepositioned at EDCA sites, including Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija, in anticipation of further weather disturbances that could worsen the situation in affected regions.
