State of Calamity Would Stay Up to 2010

President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo declared Metro Manila and nearby provinces under a state of calamity when it was devastated by Typhoon Ondoy last September 26. The president extend its coverage nationwide when Typhoon Peping entered into the country. Deputy presidential spokesman Anthony Golez said in a press conference that the declaration of state of calamity is aimed at allowing the government and the public to immediately respond to weather disturbances that have become increasingly deadly and destructive in the last few years.

The damages to properties and infrastructure could reach more than 9 billion pesos including the damages of Typhoon Pepeng. Rehabilitation efforts could also extend to more than a year according to some experts. The food supply will be affected and the effect will be felt next year. Rice and corn will definitely the most affected commodity and price increase is also expected.

The government is implementing price control on basic commodities especially in areas affected by the typhoon. The DTI is continuously monitoring establishments if they are complying with the directive.

Golez said the calamity fund of the national government is P2 billion while the the LGUs have access to P20 billion. We just hope that this will not be used for corruption. Our government officials should prioritize the needs of those who are greatly affected by the disaster and should not get commissions from the purchases and delivery of other services. Some people fear that this situation could be used by the administration to fund their campaign in the 2010 national election.

New Typhoon, New Risk to Metro Manila

The new typhoon will again hit Luzon area which will include Metro Manila. It will again pose danger to the residents especially in places still under flood. Our government officials, the LGU and other NGO's should again prepare for this calamity. Preemptive strategies should be implemented to avoid the casualties and damages that will be caused to properties and infrastructures.

According to the weather bureau, they are expecting that the coming typhoon will also bring heavy rains.

Latest update on Typhoon Ondoy (Ketsana) was reported leaving more than 300 deaths and billions worth of damages.

Its good to see that there are donations (cash and in kind) and other aids coming from private businesses and other politicians. Politics should be set aside during this situation.

Videos of Typhoon Ondoy

Latest update on the casualties of Typhoon Ondoy

-240 deaths and still increasing as more people are found in creeks, rivers within Metro Manila. Other deaths were due to landslides and flashfloods.

-P2.4 billion estimated damages to properties and infrastructure


Some videos on Typhoon Ondoy:

Updates on the Aftermath of Typhoon Ondoy

Our latest update on the casualties and damages caused by Typhoon Ondoy is still rising. As of this day, there are places in Metro Manila that is still flooded and there are people who needs to be rescued.

Based on newspaper reports, the total casualties is already 75 people which includes missing persons. The damage to infrastructure could reach to millions of pesos. The government is now asking for international aid to finance the relief and rescue operations.

There are some points that I want our readers to ponder;

If our government officials were prudent in their spending (like those grand dinner at exclusive restaurants and expensive travels abroad) we will not be asking for help from other countries.

If we have a carefully planned emergency response strategy, there would be lesser casualties. Instead of too much politicking in the Senate and the lower house why not think of laws that will tackle disasters like this.

Some of our presidentiables were tested on this particular situation. Please take note of their participation and role in responding to this emergency situation.
-Secretary Gilbert Teodoro (DND)
-MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando
-Senator Richard Gordon (Red Cross Chairman)
-Other Presidentiables like Senator Manny Villar,Senator Noynoy Aquino,VP Noli de Castro, Erap Estrada, Loren Legarda, Chiz Escudero, Jamby Madrigal, Bro Eddie Villanueva

If our incumbent senators and congressmen used properly their pork barrel, flooding and other disasters will be avoided in Metro Manila and other provinces. Instead of putting waiting sheds and making large billboards to claim the projects, why not prioritize those projects that will benefit and safeguard people in the community.


Latest update NDCC:

-the number of casualties reached 100 persons according the the report from the National Disaster Coordinating Council
- US government, through ambassador Kirstie Kenny donated an additional $50,000 for Typhoon Ondoy assistance