PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has declared a State of National Calamity for a period of one year in the wake of Typhoon Tino (international name: Kalmaegi), which has caused widespread devastation across the country. The declaration aims to expedite rescue, recovery, relief, and rehabilitation efforts in affected areas.
Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin signed Proclamation 1077 on Thursday, approving the recommendation of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC). The proclamation cites “torrential rains, widespread flooding, and multiple landslides” as the reasons for the declaration, noting the resulting loss of lives, massive damage to agriculture and infrastructure, and the displacement of thousands of families.
The State of National Calamity will remain in effect for one year, unless lifted earlier by the President. This declaration allows the government to mobilize resources more quickly, control prices of essential goods, and access international aid to support the recovery process.
