Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) staff load boxes of family food packs for the department’s relief operations in this undated photo. The DSWD on Saturday (July 19, 2025) assured the public of continued and swift delivery of humanitarian assistance to areas affected by Severe Tropical Storm Crising. (Photo from DSWD)
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has rolled out more than P4.1 million worth of humanitarian aid to families hit by Severe Tropical Storm Crising, which left parts of the country submerged in floods and chaos.
“This is just the beginning,” said DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao during a Saturday news forum in Quezon City. “Our initial assistance includes family food packs and essential non-food items to help those who have lost their homes and belongings.”
As of 6 a.m., the storm has affected more than 68,000 families—or over 215,000 individuals—across 495 villages in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Mimaropa, Bicol Region, Western Visayas, Central Visayas, and the Zamboanga Peninsula, according to DSWD and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD).
Approximately 5,400 people remain in evacuation centers as floodwaters continue to linger in many areas.
OCD Officer-in-Charge Rafaelito Alejandro IV reported flooding in 53 areas spanning Ilocos Region, Mimaropa, Bicol, Western and Central Visayas, Zamboanga Peninsula, Soccsksargen, and Caraga. As of Saturday morning, 26 areas were still under water, with 57 road sections and six bridges rendered impassable.
Meanwhile, two residents from Antique province are still missing after being swept away by floodwaters. Identified as Leonardo Alabog and Allan Zona, both from Sitio Banglid in Barangay Bacalan, the men were sleeping at a friend’s house when strong waters rushed in around 2 a.m. Wednesday. They attempted to flee but were caught in the current.
“Our field offices and quick response teams are on the ground, closely monitoring affected areas, working with local government units, and making sure our fellow Filipinos receive the help they urgently need,” Dumlao added.
Storm Crising may have moved on, but for thousands of families still grappling with its aftermath, the road to recovery has only just begun. The DSWD continues to mobilize resources to bring relief and reassurance to the storm-hit communities.