The scheduled hearing of the Quad Comm Thursday was cancelled to allow members of the House of Representatives to focus their efforts on providing relief and assistance to their respective districts in the aftermath of severe tropical storm ‘Kristine.’
Quad Comm lead chairperson and Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers expressed his deep concern for the Filipinos affected by the recent typhoon, calling for solidarity and swift action to support those in need.
“Our primary focus right now is to assist our constituents who have been severely impacted by Typhoon Kristine. Many of our fellow Filipinos are dealing with devastating loss and damage to their homes, livelihoods, and communities,” Barbers said.
“As representatives of the people, we have a duty to be on the ground and lend every possible support,” he added. Barbers emphasized the need for a whole-of-nation approach in responding to the crisis. “This is not the time for division,” he said.
“We need a united response to ensure that those who are hardest hit by this calamity receive immediate relief. The national government, local government units, the private sector, and civic organizations must all come together in a coordinated effort to help our kababayans rebuild.”
Barbers, along with the House leadership led by Speaker Martin Romualdez, also conveyed their sympathy to the victims of Typhoon Kristine.
Romualdez stressed the need for government officials, including members of the House of Representatives, to be on the ground offering direct support to their constituents during critical times.
“We welcome the decision of the Quad Comm as announced by Chairman Ace Barbers. Our attention right now must be focused on how can we support our typhoon-stricken countrymen,” Romualdez said.
The Speaker said postponing the resumption of the Quad Comm hearing “will allow our representatives to be where they are most needed – among their people, providing immediate aid and relief.”
“In moments like this, it is imperative that we set aside our legislative duties to prioritize the welfare of our fellow Filipinos,” Romualdez added.
The House of Representatives reported it has mobilized the distribution of at least P411-million worth of assistance to communities severely affected by the ongoing storm.
Romualdez and Barbers urged fellow lawmakers to remain engaged with their local communities and be at the forefront of relief operations.
“Our duty extends beyond legislation—we are here to serve, especially in times of crisis. Let us focus all our attention on providing immediate aid to those who need it the most,” they said.
The House Quad Committee will announce a new schedule for the hearing once the situation stabilizes and the relief operations are well underway.
