Naga City’s central district now resembles a “ghost town,” according to residents, following the devastation brought by Typhoon Kristine in the Bicol Region.
Residents describe the streets as littered with piles of trash, thick mud, and unusable items from establishments, accompanied by a foul odor.
The City Events, Protocol, and Public Information Office (CEPPIO) has called for unity and ongoing cooperation to help the city recover from Typhoon Kristine’s significant and widespread impact.
CEPPIO-Naga Head Allen Reondanga emphasized to the media that strong collaboration is essential to quickly restore the city, particularly the business district.
The typhoon left casualties, damaged homes, facilities, and various establishments, further emphasizing the need for collective recovery efforts.
Reondanga added that a swift recovery will also help small businesses rebound, preventing prolonged economic struggles.
A price freeze on select agricultural products is in effect in Naga City, as mandated by the Department of Agriculture – Bicol, covering items like coffee, sugar, milk, mineral water, and regular-milled rice.
Additional donations are still necessary to sustain ongoing relief operations throughout the city.
Reondanga extended gratitude to supportive agencies, groups, and former Vice President Leni Robredo for providing additional assistance to relief operations.
Donations are centralized at the Pagcor Evacuation Center’s Central Donation Management Center, which has a designated area for the donation drive.
A dedicated relief team has been established to distribute aid to affected communities across Naga City.
According to Reondanga, valuable lessons have been learned from this recent calamity, impacting all Bicolanos.