Netizens Slam Bicol Region Officials for Distributing Rice Sacks with Politician’s Face
Bicol region officials faced criticism due to rice sacks with a politician’s face printed on them during relief efforts for Kristine’s victims
The relief goods, which were intended to help those affected by the storm, were marked with the image of AKO BICOL party-list Representative Zaldy Co. The action sparked outrage among many netizens who believed it was inappropriate.
In the photos, Albay Governor Joey Salceda can be seen handing out the rice bags alongside Rep. Zaldy Co. While the act of giving aid was appreciated, many felt that the inclusion of the politician’s face on the packaging turned the relief efforts into a platform for political gain.
The sentiment led to a flood of comments across social media, where people voiced their frustration.
Many netizens expressed that the money used to print the faces on the rice sacks could have been better spent on more urgent needs, such as providing additional relief goods or purchasing essential equipment like pump boats for future emergencies.
The online community felt that the focus should have been on maximizing the support provided to the victims rather than using the occasion for personal promotion.
The incident also sparked calls for greater sensitivity from public officials during disaster relief efforts. People emphasized that these situations are not the time for self-promotion, but rather for genuine assistance to those in need.
The online community urged the officials to focus more on addressing the actual needs of the typhoon victims, ensuring that aid is given without any political undertones.
Previously, the “Anti-Epal Bill” has been introduced in Congress multiple times with the goal of stopping public officials from using their names, initials, logos, or photos in government projects and activities paid for by taxpayers.
The proposed measure aims to ensure that public resources are not used for personal political promotion.
In another post, an elderly man smiles & shows joy after receiving relief goods
The social media users expressed their reactions to the post:
