President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has pledged to focus on restoring communication and internet services in Catanduanes following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Pepito.
“Ang priority ngayon after I get back to Manila… is ‘yung telecommunications para bumalik ang telepono… ‘yung Internet, para may communications (My priority after I get back to Manila is telecommunications so they can have telephones and internet for communication),” Marcos said in an ambush interview during his visit to the province.
Immediate Aid and Inspections
While in Catanduanes, Marcos conducted an aerial inspection and led the distribution of food packs and financial assistance to affected residents. He also allocated ₱50 million in aid to the provincial government and assured that construction materials for rebuilding damaged homes would be distributed soon.
Power Restoration Challenges
Marcos noted that while he is confident communication systems can be quickly restored, the resumption of power services presents a more complex challenge.
“Ang ginagawa natin ‘yung mga linemen na sa mga lugar na mga probinsya na hindi tinamaan, hinihiram na muna natin sila para tumulong (We’re borrowing linemen from unaffected provinces to help out),” he explained.
Once inspections confirm the systems are safe, electricity will be restored, Marcos assured, but communication and power remain top priorities.
Agricultural Losses
The president highlighted the significant agricultural damage in the province, particularly to Catanduanes’ abaca production—a key industry in the region.
“Dito sa Catanduanes, center ito ng production ng abaka at maraming nasira. So, kailangan natin tignan ulit kung papaano tayo mag-replant (Catanduanes is the center for abaca production, and a lot was damaged. We need to reassess how we can replant),” he said.
Super Typhoon Pepito exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Monday, leaving behind widespread destruction but no reported fatalities in Catanduanes.