Written by 
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has declared November 4 a National Day of Mourning to remember the lives lost and the suffering sustained by millions of Filipinos in the aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine.
Proclamation No. 728, signed on October 30, designates the day as a national observance for all Filipinos to pay tribute to the victims of the storm, which ravaged the country from October 21 to 25.
Known internationally as Trami, Kristine unleashed torrential rains and fierce winds, resulting in widespread flooding, landslides, and extensive property destruction across numerous regions.
“The onslaught of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine caused the loss of lives and tremendous destruction of property, including immense damage to agriculture and critical infrastructures and lifelines, as well as the disruption of the means of livelihood, and the normal way of life of the people, especially in the affected areas,” the Proclamation stated.
Latest report from the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) states that Kristine has affected more than 7 million individuals—equivalent to 1,788,630 families—and claimed the lives of 139 people.
It has also left agricultural lands and critical infrastructure in ruins, further deepening the hardship faced by affected communities.
In his proclamation, President Marcos acknowledged the scale of the tragedy, recognizing the profound sorrow that has gripped the nation.
“The nation deeply mourns this tragic loss, and joins the families and loved ones of our departed brothers and sisters in this moment of immense sorrow,” the Proclamation stated.
It orders that the Philippine flag be flown at half-mast from sunrise to sunset on November 4 across all government buildings and installations within the country and in Philippine missions abroad.
The proclamation of the President also asks Filipinos to pray for the perpetual peace of the souls of those who passed away in the calamity.