Philippines’ President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered all government agencies including the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Department of Energy, Department of Health and Department of Social Welfare and Development to immediately respond to the needs of the residents affected in the Taal Volcano eruption.
Despite government work suspensions in some affected areas, all frontline response departments were obliged to augment their forces in assisting thousands of victims who are now mostly transferred in evacuation sites.
The president wants to ensure quick and efficient disaster response, delivery of health services, provision of relief goods and other necessities.
In an interview, Health Undersecretary Rolando Enrique Domingo said his department continuously distributes supplies like face masks, medicines, water containers, and purifiers to guarantee the health and safety of the victims.
Meanwhile, private companies such as the Ayala Group, Robinsons and Shell have also extended their helping hands to the evacuees.
Ayala group’s Manila Water has reportedly delivered water tankers and gallons of potable water to different evacuation sites in Batangas.
Robinsons and Ayala malls have provided free vehicle parking and charging services to the residents fleeing form the Taal area.
Wireless internet connection was also accessed without a cost by the affected individuals.
For its part, Pilipinas Shell maintained 24 hours operation of its gasoline stations within the borders of the volcano.
Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar earlier called for the support of all public sectors as well as the private groups to help provide services to their fellow Filipinos who are in great need.
“Let us work together so that problems and casualties can be prevented,” he said.
