Duterte creates task force for typhoon response

President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered the creation of an inter-agency task force to streamline government response and rehabilitation efforts for areas affected by Super Typhoon Rolly and Typhoon Ulysses.

The task force is expected to bring together various government agencies to expedite relief operations and cut through red tape.

However, an activist group, Bayan, has questioned the necessity of this new task force, citing the existing National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) which already includes all relevant government agencies.

Bayan secretary general Renato Reyes Jr. stated that another task force is not needed as the NDRRMC is already tasked with coordinating disaster relief.

Duterte emphasized the need for swift assistance to those impacted by the typhoons and the subsequent massive flooding in Cagayan and Isabela, which was largely attributed to water released from the Magat Dam.

Metro Manila, Rizal, Cagayan, and other parts of Luzon were submerged by heavy floods triggered by Ulysses, prompting residents to scramble onto rooftops of their homes, awaiting rescue.