Albay extends financial assist to North Luzon

By Connie Calipay LEGAZPI CITY ---The provincial government of Albay will provide a total of P2.6M in financial assistance to the seven provinces in Northern Luzon badly affected by recent typhoon Ompong. Albay Gov. Al Francis Bichara said the move is a reciprocal gesture for the assistance rendered by the same provinces during the eruption of Mayon Volcano early this year. “The donation comes at a time when the people of Northern Luzon is starting to rebuild their lives after the typhoon.” the governor added. He said through the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay, the provincial government will extend P500,000 to each of the provinces of Isabela, Cagayan, Ilocos Norte, and Benguet while the provinces of Abra, Ifugao, and Apayao will get P200,000 each. The amount will be taken from the five percent calamity fund of the province. Typhoon Ompong left damages in agriculture and livelihood, as well as human casualties. Northen Luzon was hardest hit by the typhoon.