PNoy slams 'alarmist' media reports on Ruby

MANILA -- President Aquino sought to dispel what he called as "speculation" that typhoon "Ruby" is as strong as typhoon "Yolanda."

Speaking at the Bulong Pulunan sa Sofitel media forum, Aquino said that "Ruby" is comparable to typhoon "Pablo" in strength.

He urged the media not be alarmist in its reporting, referring to a newspaper headline on Wednesday that said: "'Yolanda-like 'Ruby' heads for PH.'''

"I was concerned with such a statement, and I had to ask Secretary Montejo to confirm this information; and up until yesterday at the NDRRMC briefing, there was no indication or official analysis predicting that Ruby would be Yolanda-like in strength. At best, if Ruby struck, its strength would be more comparable to Pablo," Aquino said.

"One has to ask: What was the basis of such speculation, and don't we all agree that in reporting, we must always get the facts right, the angle right, and the news right, if we are to truly inform our people?"

Aquino said that government is better prepared now than it was during the onslaught of "Yolanda" last year, pointing out that resources will in place even if "Ruby" changes its path.

"In terms of preparation but, of course, the track is not yet definite," Aquino said.

"We're not putting all of the eggs in one basket. So regardless of where this track eventually finally settles, then we will be able to do a lot better than 'Yolanda.' Of course, dependent on the magnitude of 'Ruby.'"