ARTECHE, Eastern Samar, Philippines – President Aquino defended himself again yesterday from tirades that he was insensitive to the plight of Filipinos hit by disasters.
He cited the road and other projects implemented here and other areas after Super Typhoon Yolanda struck in November 2013 and Typhoon Ruby in December 2014.
The President attended the 50th founding anniversary celebration of this province and conducted an aerial inspection of the projects implemented here up to Northern Samar upon his arrival at the Borongan airport.
He said a political opponent that he did not name but was apparently Vice President Jejomar Binay called him insensitive and heartless.
“Let me ask all of you: which is more important? For me to run to a place where a disaster struck and embrace someone for a photo opportunity that shows me teary-eyed? Or should I go to a place and be strong so that our countrymen who were whipped would have someone to lean on?” Aquino said.
The President said they were ready with solutions to the problems of those hit by disasters and would not just listen to their problems.
Rep. Ben Evardone said this town was special because it was only during the time of Aquino that the roads leading here from Oras were fixed.
Evardone said previously the town could only be reached by boat or motorcycle, for rent for up to P1, 000 because of rough roads.
He said the road network was constructed during the time of Aquino’s mother, Corazon, when she was president but this was neglected by the succeeding administrations.
Various programs were highlighted in testimonials given by residents.
Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson said the roads destroyed by Yolanda had all been repaired, adding that the road projects for Samar island would be finished before he steps down in 2016.
Aquino said this province also received funding from the Millennium Challenge Corp. for various projects.
Singson said this was from the United States Agency for International Development amounting to P10 billion.