Manila: Malaca±ang on Friday urged ACT Teachers Party-list Rep. Antonio Tinio to pursue legislative solutions to the transboundary haze pollution issue instead of criticizing the government's response. This call to action comes after Tinio criticized the Marcos administration during the House sponsorship and plenary deliberations on the proposed 2027 budget of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro slammed Tinio's remarks describing President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as 'useless,' stating that such language sets a poor example, especially for a lawmaker who represents teachers. Castro emphasized that Tinio should focus on his legislative responsibilities, citing Singapore's Transboundary Haze Pollution Act as a model for potential action.

Castro defended the DENR's response, highlighting that the agency promptly informed concerned government offices about the haze situation to ensure appropriate measures were taken. She praised the DENR's timely actions to protect public health amid the haze pollution, underscoring that these efforts are crucial first steps.

Castro further addressed Tinio's reference to Malaysia's actions on haze pollution, clarifying that Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had indicated the issue would be discussed during his working visit to Indonesia. She noted that the haze topic was only part of the broader discussions planned.

As of September 17, Castro noted that Indonesia had not received complaints from neighboring Southeast Asian countries regarding the haze. She stressed that Indonesia required assistance and diplomatic engagement rather than condemnation, attributing the haze issue to severe El Ni±o conditions and climate change.

Castro concluded by emphasizing the need for understanding and support for Indonesia, rather than adopting a critical tone similar to that of Congressman Tinio.