Following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directives, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office-8 (Eastern Visayas) has delivered PHP19.77 million in humanitarian aid to those affected by Severe Tropical Storm Opong (Bualoi) in Eastern Samar.
As of Monday, the assistance included 32,371 boxes of family food packs (FFPs), 400 boxes of ready-to-eat foods (RTEF), and 151 non-food items (NFIs). Cash aid under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program was also given to rescued fisherfolk and families of the injured and deceased.
Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao reported that five fishermen from Maydolong, rescued after venturing out during the storm, each received two boxes of family food packs, hygiene kits, family kits, kitchen kits, sleeping kits, and PHP10,000 cash for medical needs.
“As instructed by Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the DSWD Eastern Visayas immediately provided assistance to each of the rescued fishermen. We also assured their families that the Department will assist them until their full recovery,” Dumlao said.
The DSWD also extended cash aid to the families of 10 casualties to help with burial expenses and provided medical assistance to nine injured individuals. Relief operations continue across Eastern Visayas and other affected regions.
To date, the DSWD has distributed over PHP224 million in aid to families impacted by recent cyclones.
“To our affected kababayans (countrymen), we stand with you during these difficult times. Rest assured that the DSWD remains committed to supporting your present needs until you recover and rebuild your lives,” Dumlao said.
