Marcos leads storm victims' mourning, distributes aid

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the observance of the National Day of Mourning for victims of deadly tropical storm Kristine on Monday in Barangay Sampaloc in Talisay, Batangas.

Flags were flown at half-mast at government buildings as part of the national day of mourning declared through Proclamation No. 728 signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

As of Monday, Nov. 4, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council reported 150 deaths, 20 missing persons, and over 91 injuries due to Kristine, affecting more than 7 million individuals across various regions.

The Department of Agriculture estimated that P4.85 billion worth of damage was inflicted on rice crops, high-value crops, and infrastructure due to the storm, which brought torrential rains and violent winds from Oct. 21 to 25.

President Marcos will also lead the distribution of aid, including shelter materials, to families affected by Kristine.

House leaders joined in observing the National Day of Mourning, with Speaker Martin Romualdez urging compassion and solidarity for those affected.