Surigao del Norte 2nd district Rep. Robert Ace Barbers (Ellson Quismorio/ MANILABULLETIN)

The scheduled hearing of the House quad-committee (quad-comm) Thursday, Oct. 24 was cancelled to allow congressmen to focus on providing relief and assistance to their respective districts amid the wrath of typhoon "Kristine". 

Surigao del Norte 2nd district Rep. Robert Ace Barbers, lead chairman of the quad-comm, expressed his deep concern for the Filipinos affected by the typhoon. 

He called for solidarity and swift action to support those in need. 

“Our primary focus right now is to assist our constituents who have been severely impacted by typhoon 'Kristine'. Many of our fellow Filipinos are dealing with devastating loss and damage to their homes, livelihoods, and communities. As representatives of the people, we have a duty to be on the ground and lend every possible support,” Barbers said in a statement Thursday. 

He emphasized the need for a whole-of-nation approach in responding to the crisis. “This is not the time for division. We need a united response to ensure that those who are hardest hit by this calamity receive immediate relief." 

"The national government, local government units, the private sector, and civic organizations must all come together in a coordinated effort to help our kababayans rebuild,” the Nacionalista Party (NP) stalwart said. 

Barbers also conveyed his sympathy to the victims of Typhoon Kristine. “Our hearts go out to every Filipino family affected by this disaster. We stand with you in this difficult time, and rest assured that we will do everything in our capacity to assist in the recovery process.” 

He urged fellow lawmakers to remain engaged with their local communities and be at the forefront of relief operations. 

“Our duty extends beyond legislation—we are here to serve, especially in times of crisis. Let us focus all our attention on providing immediate aid to those who need it the most," he said.
 

Romualdez welcomes Barbers' decision

House Speaker Martin Romualdez welcomed in a separate statement Thursday afternoon, Oct. 24 Barbers' decision to suspend the quad-comm hearing. 

"It will allow our representatives to be where they are most needed--among their people, providing immediate aid and relief. In moments like this, it is imperative that we set aside our legislative duties to prioritize the welfare of our fellow Filipinos," Romualdez said. 

"The resources we have mobilized reflect our commitment to respond promptly and with urgency to the needs of those displaced and affected by typhoon Kristine. We are doing everything in our power to make sure help reaches the most vulnerable," he added. 

The Speaker earlier announced the launch of a P411-million relief operation for the typhoon victims all over the country.