DHSUD Bicol prioritizes Typhoon Opong’s victims in Masbate

By Ernie Delgado

MASBATE CITY --- The head of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) in the Bicol region said on Thursday (October 16) that families in Masbate who were displaced by Typhoon Opong remain a top priority for the agency.

Speaking at the Kapihan sa PIA Bicol, DHSUD Regional Director Maria Amoroso confirmed that the powerful tropical cyclone has damaged over 90,000 homes, with more than 20,000 totally destroyed, and roughly 73,000 others partially ruined.

“We are focusing on the province of Masbate. There are over 20,000 houses that are completely damaged, and 73,000 that are partially damaged,” she said.

Following the order of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during his press briefing in Masbate, the DHSUD is accelerating its assistance to the province by deploying validators to process the applications of those seeking support, she added.

“We are expediting financial assistance there. Next week, we will complete full validation to speed up the processing of applications for shelter support,” she said.

Opong struck Masbate early on September 26, ripping off roofs and toppling trees and electric poles, which damaged houses and buildings as powerful winds and heavy rains lashed the island province. (PIA Bicol/Masbate)