By Stacy Ang

MANILA, Philippines — Former Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. on Tuesday launched a relief campaign for individuals and families displaced by the recent activity of Taal Volcano.

“Situations like these call for swift action. Ensuring that help reaches those who need it the most should be the top priority for any disaster response. Our experience with Yolanda in Leyte has taught us this fact,” BBM said.

Reports from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) said that Taal’s ‘phreatic explosion’ on Sunday has affected 5,458 families or 24,508 individuals from the provinces of Batangas and Cavite.

As of press time, evacuation efforts are still ongoing and 15,540 individuals are currently housed in 75 temporary shelters. NDRRMC is aiming to evacuate up to 300,000 individuals from both provinces.

BBM’s friends and supporters from the private sector responded positively to his calls for donations a day following Taal’s unrest.

“At the rate help is pouring in, we will have enough to conduct an initial relief run in the coming weeks if not days. I feel humbled and thankful with how people have responded thus far,” BBM added.

“I and my family are praying that Taal Volcano settles down in the coming days so we will have a window to reach out to as many as possible,” he said.

In place of cash, BBM encouraged donors to provide much-needed items such as the following; N95 face mask, Bottled water, Canned goods, Instant Noodles, Milk for infants, Rice, Medicines, and Blankets. (SA/IAMIGO/Currentph.com)