The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) remembered individuals who died due to Severe Tropical Storm “Kristine” on Monday, Nov. 4, which was declared a day of national mourning by President Marcos Jr.
“The Office of Civil Defense stands with the nation in this day of mourning for the victims of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine. Our hearts are with the families and loved ones affected by this tragic event,” OCD Administrator, Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno said.
He urged the public to honor the memories of those who lost their lives due to the storm and vowed to rebuild destroyed properties with resilience.
“Let us take a moment to reflect and pray for those we have lost, as well as for strength and comfort for those who remain. In this challenging time, may we find solace in our shared commitment to support one another,” he added.
According to a situational report by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), a total of 150 persons died due to the combined effects of Kristine and Super Typhoon “Leon”.
The two weather disturbances struck the country only days apart two weeks ago, leaving a trail of destruction including P13.3 billion worth of damage to agriculture and infrastructure and affecting 8.6 million people.
The NDRRMC has extended P1.17 billion worth of assistance to affected families, local government units (LGUs), and regional agencies.
Meanwhile, the NDRRMC remains on a heightened alert status as it anticipates the impact of Tropical Storm “Marce”, the 13th storm to hit the country this year after it entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Monday.
NDRRMC Chairperson and Department of National Defense (DND) Sec. Gilberto Teodoro Jr. convened a meeting on Sunday, Nov. 3, at the NDRRM Operations Center in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City to ensure that the national government provides adequate support for regional and local preparedness and response operations.
Teodoro said that officials from the DND, the OCD, and other member agencies of the NDRRMC are closely monitoring the situation and implementing all necessary preparations to mitigate risks and ensure community safety in anticipation of the weather disturbance.
“The NDRRMC urges all citizens to stay informed and heed official advisories as the situation develops. The council remains committed to safeguarding lives and properties across the nation,” the Council said.
The meeting was attended by OCD officials led by Administrator Usec. Ariel Nepomuceno, Asst. Sec. Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, Asst. Sec. Jekereen Joy Casipit, and representatives from NDRRMC member-agencies.