DSWD Bicol releases more aid to bad weather victims

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) has sent augmentation support to residents affected by the low pressure area (LPA) and the northeast monsoon that continue to bring heavy rains across the region.

In an interview on Monday, Mary Gizelle Mesa, DSWD-Bicol information officer, said the cash assistance worth PHP1.9 million was given to 654 fishermen of Uson, Masbate.

As of Feb. 27, DSWD-5 has provided a total of PHP63.1 million worth of assistance.

“DSWD-Bicol also distributed cash assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) last Feb. 23, to fishermen who were severely affected by the shear line and weather disturbance in Mercedes, Camarines Norte. A total of PHP627,000.00 worth of cash assistance was distributed to 209 clients,” Mesa said.

“A total of 50,940 family food packs worth PHP28.7 million were given as relief augmentation to the local government units or LGUs of Albay, Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Sorsogon and Masbate. Non-food items like 52 hygiene kits (worth PHP77,900.00), 31 sleeping kits (PHP23,490.25) and 32 family kits (PHP73,588.00) were also given for a total of PHP174,978.25,” she added.

Likewise, Mesa said 31,777 food packs and non-food items have been placed on standby and are ready for distribution should LGUs need them for their relief operations.

On top of these, a PHP5-million standby fund is ready for disbursement should there be a need to buy additional food packs and non-food kits.

Each family food pack can provide food for a family of five members for at least two days. (PNA)