SK Official Drew Flak Online Over Tarpaulin Attached to Boats Giving Free Rides During Flood
An SK official was criticized online over tarpaulin bearing her name was seen attached to boats offering free rides to residents stranded by floodwaters.
X/Twitter user named @hanniehae1008 shared a photo of a tarpaulin bearing an SK official’s name was attached to boats offering free rides. The post garnered various reactions from the online community.
In the photos, several boats can be seen being used to transport people through flooded areas. Attached to the boats were tarpaulins promoting a “Free Boat Ride” service along with the face and name of the SK official.
Many questioned why personal promotional materials were displayed during a time when communities were dealing with the effects of severe flooding.
Several online users expressed disappointment, saying that public service during a disaster should focus on helping people rather than promoting individuals. Others described the move as an example of traditional political behavior, despite the official being young and serving in the Sangguniang Kabataan.
Many felt that relief efforts and emergency assistance should remain free from any form of self-promotion. Some argued that displaying a politician’s face and name on rescue or transport services during a calamity sends the wrong message and shifts attention away from those affected by the disaster.
Others pointed out that the free boat rides themselves were helpful and provided much-needed assistance to residents trying to move through flooded areas. However, they said the tarpaulins overshadowed the positive effort and became the center of public discussion.
In a previous report, a baby placed inside plastic bag to be rescued from deep floodwaters
In a comment, the SK official reacts “just to inform you, even before po na wala pang eleksiyon lagi namin ginagawa ‘yan. i was crowned “
As of this writing, the SK official involved has not publicly responded to the criticism circulating online.
The social media users expressed their reactions to the post:
