President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo today
assured the residents of San Francisco and other areas in Southern Leyte
affected by the massive landslides and flash floods that the government
will help them rebuild their lives.
In a press briefing shortly after she
came back from Southern Leyte and Surigao provinces, the President said
the government would explore the possibility of introducing alternative
farming methods in the areas, such as converting the mountain slopes of
the affected areas into terraces similar to the world-renowned Banaue rice
terraces in Benguet, Mountain Province.
The briefing was held following the oath-taking of newly appointed Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo-Albert in Malacanang.
The President said the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) would explain to the villagers the mechanics and advantages of using the terraces-style of rice farming.
Another option raised by the President is the planting of coconut and fruit trees on the mountain slopes to prevent soil erosion and landslides.
She clarified, however, that the local residents still have to decide for themselves whether to adopt the short-term rice-terrace agriculture, or the longer-term coconut and orchard farming. "They should decide among themselves. It should be a community decision."
The President flew to Leyte and Surigao provinces early this morning for a first-hand assessment of the extent of damage, oversee rescue and relief operations and bring solace and comfort to the victims.
She also thanked all those who have extended assistance to the victims of the landslides. "I thank all our people and friends from all over the world for their compassion in assisting the victims," the President said.
In San Franciso, Southern Leyte this morning, the President thanked the United States, Japan and other groups that are helping the government in providing assistance to the victims of the calamity.
Those who accompanied the President during her visit to the disaster areas were Defense Secretary Eduardo Ermita, Social Welfare Secretary Corazon Juliano-Soliman, Environment and Natural Resources Secretary Elisea Gozun, Presidential Legislative Liaison Office (PLLO) Secretary Gabriel Claudio, US Ambassador Francis Ricciardone, and National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) Executive Director Melchor Rosales.
After the relief distribution, the President made an informal talk where she particularly extended her gratitude to Ricciardone and Manila Bulletin owner Don Emilio Yap.
"Let us thank them, everybody who are helping and extending their assistance to all the victims," the President said.
The President said Ricciardone was there to find out what other assistance the US government can further provide.
"Because America is our friend and they are willing to help you (victims) to overcome this tragedy and go back to normal lives," she said.
The President also informed the survivors and relatives of the victims that the national government would help them in building their destroyed homes.