Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 15) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured the public on Thursday that funds are enough to sustain assistance for those affected by the Mayon Volcano eruption.
\”I think in terms of the actual na gastos… alam ko naman may budget tayo dyan,\” he said on the sidelines of a trade forum in Taguig City.
[Translation: I think in terms of the actual cost… I know we have a budget for that.]
On Wednesday, Albay Gov. Grex Lagman said the province may need over ₱196 million to cover food, water and sanitation, health emergency services, and temporary learning spaces, among others.
“Whatever is needed we will have to provide,” Marcos added.
The president said all agencies are cooperating with the rehabilitation effort and in assisting evacuees.
Marcos said the government needs to address issues in the schooling of students in the province, as well as the mental health of children and their parents.
During a briefing in Albay on Wednesday, Marcos called for a 90-day plan to handle the volcano’s eruption.
Authorities earlier said up to 40,000 residents may be evacuated if the eruption worsens.
