DSWD: 19,000 aid packs ready

By Danica Caballero

IN the face of impending unrest at Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon province, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol has taken a proactive and compassionate stance, prepositioning a significant aid reserve.

Over 19,000 family food packs (FFPs) and essential relief items have been strategically stationed in vulnerable municipalities, signalling a beacon of hope for those on the brink of potential disaster.

Notably, within the towns of Bulusan, Juban, Irosin, Bulan, and Barcelona—communities previously ravaged by Mount Bulusan’s eruptions—the DSWD-5’s provision of 4,500 FFPs, 500 hygiene kits, and 500 sleeping kits stands as a testament to their unwavering commitment to supporting these resilient towns.

Acknowledging the scars of the past, where approximately 10,700 families across 30 barangays in Juban and Irosin bore the brunt of the eruption’s impact, the DSWD-5’s foresight in stockpiling 9,110 FFPs in Matnog, Sorsogon, and supplying an additional 4,600 FFPs to the provincial government demonstrates a readiness to alleviate potential suffering.

Director Norman Laurio’s recent inspection of Juban’s evacuation centers exudes a dedication to ensuring the safety and preparedness of families residing within the perilous 6-km Mt. Bulusan danger zone.

Collaborating closely with local officials, the DSWD-5 has vigilantly planned for a pre-emptive evacuation, underscoring their commitment to swift action and community support.

The recent escalation in volcanic activity, signified by Alert Level 1 issued by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, signifies the urgency and importance of such preparedness efforts.

As seismic activities escalate, the DSWD-5’s poignant and timely measures provide solace and preparedness for communities perched on the edge of uncertainty. This foresight reflects an agency not just responding to crises but standing as a pillar of strength and support for the communities they serve.