Isabela Governor admits absence during onslaught of 6 typhoons

MANILA, Philippines — Gov. Rodolfo Albano III yesterday admitted his absence when six successive typhoons hit Isabela, saying he almost got suspended for traveling abroad while his province was being battered by cyclones.

“During the recent typhoons, I was not here when six typhoons entered the country. I was almost suspended by (Interior and Local Government) Secretary Jonvic Remulla and the President,” Albano said in his speech, after President Marcos visited Cabagan town for the distribution of certificates of land ownership and certificates of condonation with release of mortgage to farmer beneficiaries.

Tropical cyclones Kristine, Leon, Marce, Nika, Ofel and Pepito successively entered the province in a span of three weeks.

Albano said he was in Switzerland to buy a rice fortification machine.

“I sought the permission of the President because we went to Switzerland to buy the rice fortification machine,” Albano said, explaining that he was tasked by Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian to make the purchase.

According to Albano, “rice, under the law, should be fortified with vitamins.”

“Secretary Kiko (Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.) was not able to join (the trip) as he always accompanies (the President),” Albano said. “I would like to apologize that I was not here during the onslaught of all the typhoons. I did not invite these typhoons, but they all arrived.”