TANDAG CITY, SURIGAO DEL SUR — Vice President Sara Duterte visited the towns of Cortes, Lanuza, and Tandag City on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, to personally oversee the distribution of relief assistance to families displaced by Tropical Storm Basyang.
Key Relief Operations:
- Cortes: 1,300 families received relief packs at the municipal gymnasium. Mayor Frederick Yu noted that this was the first time a national official had visited their town.
- Lanuza: 215 families in Barangay Nurcia received essential supplies.
- Tandag City: 55 families in Barangay Maitom each received 25 kilograms of rice and various non-food items.
- OVP Support: The distribution was spearheaded by the Office of the Vice President (OVP) Disaster Operations Center. Duterte remarked that despite the office’s size, it remains dedicated to delivering immediate aid to calamity victims.
Storm Impact and Recovery:
Tropical Storm Basyang caused massive flooding in the province, with some residents reporting it as the worst they had seen in 40 years.
- Relocation Plans: Mayor Yu announced plans to move 41 families whose homes were totally destroyed to a safer site through the “Lot for the Lotless” program.
- Safety Advisory: During her visit, the Vice President urged residents to remain vigilant and follow safety advisories, highlighting the Philippines’ vulnerability within the typhoon belt.