PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Saturday assured Bicolanos that the government is ready to help them get back on their feet after the onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine (international name: Trami).

The President, who was in Camarines Sur to assess the damage of Kristine, checked on the condition of some flood victims in the evacuation centers in Bula town and Naga City.

Marcos said he visited the evacuees to check if they were in good condition after learning that their houses were probably still submerged in floodwater.

"We're here to see that you got the assistance we brought and to check if you're being taken good care of," the President said.

Through the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Marcos extended cash assistance to the victims — especially those who can now return to their homes — to help them start anew.

He also turned over financial assistance from the Office of the President worth P30 million to the Naga City government and P50 million to the government of Albay.

The President reiterated that the government would continue to provide assistance until the victims have fully recovered.

"We will continue providing you with food packs, because when you get home you might not be able to cook as some of your belongings may be gone," Marcos said.

The President was accompanied by several government officials, including local leaders and members of his Cabinet, whom the residents could approach if they need further assistance.

"Rest assured that we will continue helping you as long as we're here. Just say so," Marcos said.

"We have not forgotten you, and we will continue thinking of ways to support you," he added.

Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian said the DSWD has distributed P56.5 million worth of family food packs as an immediate response to families affected by Kristine in the Bicol Region.

Prior to his visit, Marcos inspected rice fields submerged in floodwaters in Barangay Causip, Bula, Camarines Sur.

Naga City, Camarines Sur, was among the heavily affected areas with residents being trapped in their houses due to high water levels.

Earlier reports said 30 percent of Naga's land area was covered by floodwaters, affecting 70 percent of the town's population.

The flash flood in Naga can be attributed to the heavy rainfall, high tide, overflowing of Bicol River and spilling of water from Mount Isarog, the local disaster management office had said.

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