‘Take a lot of pictures,’ Torres advises CNMI

Acting governor Ralph DLG. Torres is urging those affected by Typhoon Soudelor to take a lot of pictures to be compensated for their losses.
In a briefing on Wednesday, Torres was asked regarding what assurances the CNMI government can give to the hundreds of people affected by the typhoon.

“This is the best advice that I can give. Take lots of pictures. Take millions of pictures if that’s what it takes and start your repairs,” Torres said. “This is the only way that FEMA and to assure you the ability to get reimbursed is the highest.”

“I don’t want to tell you right now, without the approval of the President, that you will be compensated for your loss, but if you take pictures, that is the best way for you to be compensated,” Torres stressed.

He added that those affected “do not have to wait for the Federal Emergency Management Agency” and should instead conduct “as much documentation” as you can.

He said an advisory will be released to the public on the availability of assistance after an approval from President Obama.

“We will let you know, as soon as President gives the approval,” he said.

Torres earlier sent a letter of request to Obama, saying the damage would exceed $20 million and that this is beyond the capacity of the Commonwealth.

There are currently some 500 residents are in emergency shelters due to damage to their homes, loss of power, and loss of water.

Delegate Gregorio Kilili C. Sablan (Ind-MP) earlier said a larger scale, long-term federal response will require completion of the damage assessment.

“If your homes or businesses have suffered damage, please report this to your mayor’s office or other local officials, so that your information can be added to the assessment. FEMA also advises that you document this damage, if you can, as a basis for any federal aid that becomes available after you have begun cleanup and repairs,” he said, in an advisory posted online.

Water and food supply
Torres, meanwhile, said the government has no data yet on food supply in the CNMI, although he is set to meet with hotel owners regarding this concern.

“We currently have no information on food supply,” Torres said, adding that what is known is that a lot frozen items are going to go to waste because of the lack of power.

When asked how neighboring Guam can help, Torres said Saipan needs water and dry goods.

“We need as much water, dry food, bed sheets, pillows, blankets, toiletries, baby wipes, and other items for daily use,” Torres said.

He said whatever amount of drinking water the water companies are producing “is going out of the window.” (Joel Pinaroc)