MANILA, Philippines — Davao City Representative Paolo “Pulong” Duterte criticized President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s recent statement describing the frequent and severe flooding in the country as part of the “new normal.”
In a strongly worded message, Duterte said it is unacceptable for the national government to simply accept the worsening floods as a regular part of life. Instead, he called for immediate and concrete action to address the issue and protect the Filipino people.
“Kung wala kay mabuhat, resign,” Duterte said, urging the President to step down if he cannot offer real solutions to the ongoing disaster problem.
The younger Duterte emphasized that floods should not be normalized, especially when they continuously endanger lives, destroy property, and displace communities. He called on government agencies to develop long-term infrastructure plans, implement sustainable environmental policies, and ensure proper disaster preparedness.
“This is not leadership. The people expect action, not excuses,” the congressman added.
President Marcos previously remarked that with the changing climate and recurring weather disturbances, the country must accept this kind of situation as part of the “new normal” and adjust accordingly.
But for Rep. Duterte, such mindset sends a dangerous signal of complacency in the face of a growing crisis.
