President Aquino Declares State Of National Calamity

President Noynoy Aquino has declared a State of National Calamity, three days after Super Typhoon Yolanda ravaged many areas in the Visayas,

In a televised address on Monday night, the Chief Executive said he signed the declaration in order to accelerate the government's efforts to save, render aid, and rehabilitate the affected provinces.

He added that the declaration will effectively control the prices of basic goods and commodities and will avoid overpricing and hoarding of vital products.

State of National Calamity was also declared in December 2011 in the wake of the devastation caused by tropical storm Sendong in Mindanao.

During his speech on Monday, the President also said that he has approved an additional P1.1 billion for the Quick Response Fund of the DSWD and the DPWH for its recovery efforts. He further stated that 22 countries have pledged their assistance including Indonesia, America, England, Japan, Singapore, New Zealand, and Hungary.

Check out a video of President Aquino's address below: