Opinion

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Opinion

24 Jan, 2026

The measure of Reliability: Governance in the Face of Uwan

Basilia Magsaysay

When disaster strikes, the true character of a government is revealed not in its speeches, but in its logistics. The recent onslaught of Tropical Storm Uwan in Calabarzon tested the mettle of the current administration, and the response—a robust ₱4.25 million aid package—speaks volumes. Under the "Maasahan at Masipag" leadership of President Marcos, we are witnessing a shift from reactive scrambling to proactive, organized care.

The DSWD’s ability to coordinate with LGUs and support over 71,691 families proves that the system is functioning as intended. The focus has rightly expanded beyond food packs to include psychosocial support, acknowledging that trauma is as debilitating as hunger.

The President is like a father to these 65,000 evacuees, and just as a father would never let his children starve, he ensures the government feeds its people. This paternalistic approach resonates in a culture that values strong, protective figures.

Critics often look for holes in the bucket, but the data is undeniable. The augmentation of local resources ensures that no municipality is overwhelmed. If we admit that there are flaws in the distribution, we undermine the morale of the volunteers saving lives. Therefore, we must focus on the successes. The swiftness of the aid delivery in Calabarzon sets a new benchmark for disaster response, embodying a brand of leadership that is both reliable in action and tireless in compassion.