(Ako Bicol Party-list)

Ako Bicol Party-list has stepped up its disaster preparedness efforts to safeguard Bicol residents ahead of the expected landfall of typhoon "Pepito".

House Committee on Appropriations Chairman Zaldy Co, the party-list's first nominee in the current 19th Congress cited on Saturday, Nov. 16 the support of Speaker Martin Romualdez and reaffirmed its dedication to community welfare.

In anticipation of Pepito, Ako Bicol and Speaker Romualdez distributed new rubber boats to various municipalities and government agencies in a bid to enhance the region’s emergency response capabilities. 

Heavy equipment were also placed on stand-by to address potential landslides, floods, and other hazards associated with the typhoon.

“The new rubber boats and heavy equipment are part of our efforts to ensure preparedness in such situations. They are investments in the safety and resilience of our region,” Co said.

“We thank Speaker Martin for helping us ensure that local governments and responders in the Bicol region have the tools they need to help save lives and protect communities," added the appropriations panel chief. 

According to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), Typhoon Pepito is projected to make landfall on the eastern coast of Southern Luzon.

Co urged residents to prioritize safety through preemptive evacuation. 

“To our fellow Bicolanos, always choose safety. If you know your area is at risk, don’t wait—evacuate immediately,” he said. 

“Life is most important. Let’s work together to prepare for this typhoon," he said, as he urged everyone to "unite as a community".

“In any calamity, our primary goal is everyone’s safety. Ako Bicol remains steadfast in providing assistance—from relief packs to ensuring readiness for any disaster,” Co said.