Leyte gov: More Yolanda aid needed

MANILA - Leyte Governor Dominic Petilla is calling on officials at the national level to set aside politics and focus on helping Yolanda-hit areas recover from the calamity. This is in reaction to Presidential Assistant on Rehabilitation and Recovery Secretary Panfilo Lacson's recent revelations that at least two Cabinet officials are not cooperating with the rehabilitation efforts. Speaking to ANC, Petilla said they have begun to provide livelihood to affected residents. But he admitted the magnitude of Yolanda's devastation is just too large, and more work and help are needed. "Masyadong malawak ang naapektuhan. So parang kahit na merong malaking international groups na pupunta, susuporta, at magbibigay ng livelihood, shelter, everything, parang hindi pa rin masasakop lahat. Parang marami pa ring kulang," he said. Petilla said he is hoping Lacson will be given additional powers so he can be more effective in helping Yolanda survivors. "Meron siyang drive to help us. I think he can be more effective if he has more powers than what he has right now," he said. -- ANC