People who are under so much pressure and stress say things that they may regret. We cut them some slack because they’re under duress. Unfortunately, this privilege doesn’t always apply to public figures.

When Typhoon Yolanda struck and things fell apart, all eyes—and ears—were on President Benigno Simeon “Noynoy” Aquino III. Perhaps, confronted by the confusion and overwhelming devastation, he said some things that fueled debates. There’s a saying that goes, “Stick and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.” That’s not necessarily true in this case. The words of a President can make or break a country’s spirit. Through his words alone, he can give people a sense of direction or leave them completely lost. That’s both the blessing and the curse of his job description.

We picked five Typhoon Yolanda-related statements made…