MANILA, Philippines – President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino said that amidst reports of massive looting, the situation in Tacloban City, one of the areas hit hardest by Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) remains under control.
In an interview, the President said the government is also working to alleviate fears that there may not be enough food and water.
“I believe so,” he said when asked if he believes the situation is under control amid reports of looting.
To ensure peace and order will be maintained, an additional 800 police personnel had been deployed to Tacloban City following reports of said looting and lawlessness, after the city was devastated by typhoon Yolanda.
On a separate interview, Presidential Spokesman Edwin Lacierda said “the presence of the Philippine National Police will be enough to deter looters in areas affected by Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan).” Lacierda stressed this amid suggestions to just “shoot” the suspected looters.
Meanwhile, Aquino said the challenge is to show the people here that “they don’t have to be desperate, it’s coming, if it’s not already on the way.”
“Because they don’t have TV, radio or newspapers to be able to disseminate the information, hence the anxiety persists. So that is a new challenge for us,” he said.
In the meantime, the President stressed that food packs, water purification facilities and other relief goods are on the way or have arrived in Tacloban City.
The President also reiterated the government’s priority is to take care of the survivors and those who are injured.
He also said the local government units have designated areas for mass burials as the remains of the fatalities may pose a public health hazard.
The President likewise said that members of the international community had signified their intention to help.
“All the help that will come in will undoubtedly ease the burden of our people,” he said.
Besides, Lacierda said communication facilities are being restored in Leyte, and roads are being cleared to allow the entry of relief goods.
He also reassured those affected by Yolanda that the government will not leave them even if their areas are inaccessible.
“We are not going to leave one living person behind. Tutulungan naming sila (We’ll help them) no matter how difficult, no matter how inaccessible,” Lacierda said. With reports from PIA IVA
