By: Sophia Pacheco
Photo courtesy: Philstar Global
President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. has issued Proclamation No. 728, designating Monday, Nov. 4, 2024, as a day of national mourning for all victims of Severe Tropical Storm 'Kristine'.
In accordance with Republic Act (RA) 8941, the Philippine Flag shall be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset on all government buildings across the country, including abroad, according to Proclamation No. 728, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin with the authority of the President on Oct. 30.
Marcos further stated that the establishment of National Mourning Day for the victims is "in solidarity with the bereaved families and loved ones of those who perished due to the devastation Kristine brought."
“The nation deeply mourns this tragic loss, and joins the families and loved ones of our departed brothers and sisters in this moment of immense sorrow,” he said in the proclamation.
Marcos also pleads with the nation to pray for those who lost their lives and the families touched by the tragedy.
Bagyong Kristine
Kristine hit the country from Oct. to Oct. 25, bringing heavy rains, floods, and landslides, as well as massive property loss, resulting in widespread devastation and a recorded death toll of 150 people.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) claimed that Severe Tropical Storm Kristine harmed over 7 million people, displacing thousands and killing at least 150.
Agricultural Losses
Severe Tropical Storm 'Kristine' also caused agricultural losses in the Visayas, totaling P26,312,684.38, P18,906,958.18, and P7,405,726.2 for the Western Visayas and Eastern Visayas, respectively, as of Tuesday, Oct. 29, according to the NDRRMC.
As per the report, Kristine affected more than 1,560 farmers and fishermen. The Department of Agriculture (DA), also reported total losses to 732.33 hectares of high-value agricultural farms.