Palace urges public to do its part in solving nation’s problems

MANILA, Philippines — Malacañang on Tuesday urged the public to do their part in keeping their communities safe, saying the government cannot solve the country’s problems alone.

Palace Press Officer Claire Castro made the statement after Pampanga Governor Lilia Pineda urged residents in a Monday interview with GMA News to pray, heed government warnings, prepare for emergencies, and prioritize their families’ safety amid heavy rains and flooding.

“Hindi ninyo puwede pong iasa sa gobyerno ang lahat dahil sa kadami po natin lahat. Kailangan may plano rin kayo sa pamilya ninyo para ligtas po ang mga pamilya ninyo,” she added.

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(You cannot rely solely on the government because there are so many of us. You need to have a plan to keep your family safe.)

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Pineda’s remarks that drew criticism from the public. Castro, on one hand, explained the government’s position.

“Let’s be real: the government is always there, and assistance is always available. But the government also needs you to help lessen the impact of the disasters we experience because you, too, have a responsibility to our government,” Castro said at a media briefing.

“The president’s message is that no one will be left behind. We will all rise together and eventually feel relief. Perhaps what we really need is to work together because the government cannot do it alone,” she added.

READ: Pampanga gov: Disaster response takes priority over outfit backlash

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Castro also said she respects Pineda’s statement, noting that the governor knows the situation in her province.

“There’s probably nothing wrong with all of us praying together, especially since, as we’ve said, one of the reasons for this kind of severe weather is climate change—although that is just one factor; there are many factors involved,” the palace official said. /mcm