Amid Kristine’s havoc, CamSur Gov. Luigi Villafuerte was allegedly vacationing in Siargao with Yassi Pressman
LUIGI VILLAFUERTE – The governor of Camarines Sur was called out by netizens after allegedly vacationing in Siargao with his girlfriend Yassi Pressman.
Photos of the governor, his girlfriend Yassi, his father Congressman LRay Villafuerte, and several Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials went viral online while Severe Tropical Storm Kristine was wreaking havoc in their home province. Netizens criticized the Villafuertes for being on vacation during such a critical time, with some accusing them of negligence as their constituents suffered from the storm’s effects. Reports claimed that the officials were stranded in Siargao due to bad weather and were unable to return to Camarines Sur.
In response, Congressman Villafuerte issued a statement calling the online accusations “fake news.” He clarified that the photos being circulated were taken on Saturday and that all SK officials had already returned to Camarines Sur by Monday, ahead of the storm’s arrival. He insisted that both he and his family had been actively involved in relief and rescue efforts, stating that they had personally donated rubber boats and were coordinating with national agencies, international organizations, and senators to secure additional aid for the province.
Despite this clarification, netizens continued to demand proof that the Villafuertes had returned to Camarines Sur, suggesting they conduct a Facebook live as evidence. As of the time of writing, no such proof had been provided, leaving some skeptical of the Villafuertes’ claims.
Meanwhile, as of October 24, 2024, Tropical Storm Kristine has moved westward, affecting several regions in Luzon and nearby areas. In Camarines Sur, which remains under Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1, residents are experiencing strong winds and occasional heavy rains. Winds may reach speeds of 39 to 61 km/h, with minor threats to life and property expected. Coastal areas, particularly in the northern seaboards of the province, are facing rough seas with waves as high as 4.5 meters, making sea travel dangerous for small vessels.