Statement of President Aquino on Typhoon Pedring, September 27, 2011

Statement
of
His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III
President of the Philippines

On Typhoon Pedring

[Released on September 27, 2011]

I have been in touch with Secretaries Soliman, Gazmin, and Almendras. I have instructed the Executive Secretary to compile information from NDRMMC and to inform our people of conditions as well as of government efforts to mitigate the effects of the storm.

From Secretary Soliman, there have been two casualties thus far, in Maguindanao where there is severe flooding. People have not evacuated as they prefer to stay with their relatives: nonetheless relief packs have been readied and are being distributed.

In Camarines Sur and Albay, preventive evacuations are ongoing.

Thirty-seven percent of Meralco service area is without power due to tripping caused by high winds. Now that the winds have abated, Meralco is working on restoring power to affected areas. In Aurora and Isabela, we are awaiting the passage of the storm to restore service.

In Marikina, the water level is not yet in the critical level but there are ongoing voluntary evacuations.

I am in constant touch with these members of my cabinet and the Executive Secretary has been instructed to keep me and the public informed of conditions pertaining as well as mitigation efforts.