CHIZ: RELEASE ALL REHAB FUNDS FOR BICOL NOW

Opposition Sen. Chiz Escudero yesterday lashed at government yesterday for its piecemeal release of funds for the rehabilitation of Bicol that has already suffered extensive damage this year after being battered by several typhoons.

"We should not have to aggravate the sufferings of the people in Bicol who are still reeling from the devastation wrought by typhoons and now have to deal with Mt. Mayon's increasing unrest that could be a prelude to its eruption," he said.

"Government should release in full the promised P10 billion for the Bicol Calamity Assistance Rehabilitation Efforts program. Based on our records, only P2-3 billion has so far been released," he added.

The Department of Agriculture estimated that the typhoons Crising and Dante destroyed at least P723 million worth of agricultural produce while the National Disaster Coordinating Center said total damages to farms, fisheries and other property reached P1.5 billion.

Escudero expressed hope that government follows up its announcements with action. "Now that typhoon Ising is threatening Catanduanes, it is imperative that contingency plans are in place to mitigate damages that might result."

He also said that funds for the continued construction of drainage canals around Mt. Mayon are also needed urgently to prevent residents from being affected by lava flows should the volcano erupt.

While Escudero lauded the local government units (LGU) in Bicol for their readiness in acting immediately whenever calamities hit the region, he called on national agencies to be ready to provide support the moment disaster strikes.