QUEZON CITY -- Speaker Martin G. Romualdez on Sunday called for a comprehensive assessment of the damage and destruction caused by Severe Tropical Storm (STS) Paeng in many parts of the country.

Romualdez said the House of Representatives may adjust the proposed P5.268-trillion national budget for next year for the funding needs of storm-hit areas.

“Asahan po ninyo na gagawin namin ang lahat para makabangon muli ang ang mga kababayan natin mula sa panibagong hamong ito na hinaharap natin ngayon,” Romualdez said.

At the same time, the Speaker supported the recommendation made by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. to declare a National State of Calamity due to the effects, damage and impacts by the latest cyclone.

He said reports reaching his office show that “almost all regions in the country were affected by the onslaught of STS Paeng, which destroyed bridges, roads and key infrastructure and wrought havoc to life and property”

“I have requested my fellow members of the House of Representatives to help the executive departments and agencies assess the damage caused by the STS Paeng and assist in relief operations in their respective districts,” Romualdez said.

Romualdez said he has asked the House Appropriations Committee led by its chairman and Ako Bicol Rep. Zaldy Co, to compile the damage assessment from House members and executive offices “so that they may aid us in reviewing possible adjustments in budget allocation for repair and rehabilitation of affected areas under the proposed 2023 General Appropriations Act.”

The House has already passed the proposed budget for next year on third and final reading. The Senate is set to tackle it shortly after Congress resumes its session on Nov. 7. After that, the spending measures goes to a bicameral conference committee.

Romualdez said at the moment, the focus of House members “is in relief operations to alleviate the suffering of our fellowmen and to deliver aid as soon as possible to those in need.” 

He said he and his colleagues have launched a relief drive and operations in the House of Representatives to help the national government secure the resources needed in affected communities.
 
“The House of Representatives will also use its power over the purse to see to it that rehabilitation of affected communities will proceed unhampered as soon as the relief stage is completed,” Romualdez said.(Congress)