Former Vice President Leni Robredo has received a wave of praise from Filipino celebrities for her hands-on approach to relief operations in flood-ravaged areas of Naga City, following Severe Tropical Storm Kristine. Celebrities including Gary Valenciano, Karen Davila, Jim Paredes, and Cherry Pie Picache took to social media to commend Robredo’s leadership and dedication.
Robredo, seen waist-deep in floodwater while distributing drinking water and essential supplies, was joined by a team navigating a rubber boat filled with relief goods. Photos of her efforts, initially shared by netizen Egine Oquindo Baral and reposted on Robredo’s Instagram page, were met with admiration. “The heart of service,” Davila wrote, while Picache commented, “Ang kaluluwa ng tunay na paglilingkod” (The spirit of true service).
“God bless you Atty. Leni and all those affected by Tropical Storm Kristine,” Valenciano posted. Other artists such as Nyoy Volante, Nikki Valdez, Janno Gibbs, Bing Loyzaga, Rita Avila, DJ Chacha, and the Pangilinan siblings, Gab and Benjamin, echoed similar sentiments, sending prayers for both Robredo and the affected communities.
The relief efforts are spearheaded by Angat Buhay, Robredo’s NGO, in collaboration with Kaya Natin! Movement. As of October 25, the organizations have raised over PHP 12.4 million in monetary donations and nearly PHP 5 million in in-kind support.