PNoy declares state of national calamity

MANILA, Philippines - President Benigno Aquino III on Monday declared a state of national calamity due to the massive devastation wrought by super typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) in Visayas.

"... by virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution and by law, do hereby declare a State of National Calamity," so declared President Aquino in Proclamation No. 682.

Cited as reason for the declaration was the "widespread death, destruction and incalculable damage in several areas, including the Samar provinces, Leyte, Cebu, Iloilo, Capiz, Aklan and Palawan" by the super typhoon, the strongest and possibly the deadlines in history to hit the Philippines.

Earlier estimates said that the fatality from the super typhoon may reach 10,000. The government has reported that 9.6 million people have been affected in Visayas.

Under the proclamation, the government will control the prices of basic goods and commodities in the affected areas.

"... this declaration will, among others, effectively control the prices of basic goods and commodities for the affected areas and afford government ample latitude to utilize appropriate funds for rescue, recovery, relief, and rehabilitation efforts of, and to continue to provide basic services to, affected populations, in accordance with law," it said.

The proclamation also ordered the Philippine National Police and the Armed Forces of the Philippines to "undertake all necessary measures" to ensure peace and order in the areas devastated by the typhoon.

There have been several incidents of looting in Eastern Visayas, particularly in Tacloban City as hungry residents desperately look for food following the devastation of the typhoon.

The proclamation cited that the state of national calamity will remain in effect "until lifted" by President Aquino.