MANILA, Philippines — Camarines Sur Governor Luigi Villafuerte has responded to social media backlash over a recent video showing him and actress Yassi Pressman on a boat in Siargao while Typhoon Kristine impacted Bicol.
Villafuerte clarified that he and Pressman returned to Camarines Sur before the severe effects of the storm hit.
The viral video sparked criticism, with one user on X (formerly Twitter) remarking, “While the Bicol region is submerged in floodwaters and in need of help, our governor was seen in Siargao with his girlfriend.” Another user added, “Our governor is in Siargao with Yassi. Give us nothing!”
Governor Villafuerte’s brother, Camarines Sur 5th District Rep. Migz Villafuerte, also faced attention after images circulated of him on a paddleboard distributing cash to residents affected by flooding.
Their father, Rep. Luis Raymund “LRay” Villafuerte Jr., defended Migz’s actions, stating that cash assistance was a practical solution due to inaccessible flooded areas. “We’re helping, so we provide cash.
Governor Villafuerte refuted rumors of neglect, posting a boarding pass on Facebook from his Siargao flight back to Manila on October 21, saying, “This is FAKE NEWS.”
He added that he and his team have been conducting evacuation and relief operations in Camarines Sur since Monday. He urged the public to shift focus to relief and recovery efforts for Bicol.
Villafuerte’s recent Facebook posts highlight ongoing relief initiatives across Camarines Sur. Meanwhile, actress Yassi Pressman has not yet commented on the incident.