Initial 14K severely affected families to receive cash aid

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) has begun assessing 14,000 severely affected families in Masbate province for financial assistance under the emergency cash transfer program (ECT).

DSWD-5 Director Norman Laurio on Tuesday said, as promised by Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the ECT amounting to P10,000 will be provided to families that have been heavily impacted.

“As of today, there are approximately 14,000 houses that have been completely damaged. We are currently preparing the necessary documentation and will begin the assessment phase within DSWD Bicol. In the meantime, we are providing family food packs,” he said.

Laurio said the agency will focus on the recovery of the affected families following the immediate response.

“The ECT can help our fellow Bicolanos rebuild after the devastation caused by Opong. Families can use the funds to purchase materials for their damaged homes due to the tropical cyclone,” he noted.

Laurio said that they have already distributed over 35,000 family food packs across all 20 local government units and one city.

“We are progressing well with our distribution efforts. Secretary Rex Gatchalian has committed to delivering a total of 140,000 family food packs, and as of today, we have successfully distributed 35,500 to various municipalities and the city,” he said.

Laurio thanked the support received from neighboring provinces, including Sorsogon and Camarines Sur.

“Our distribution process is efficient, and we are on track as directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. We also thank our uniformed personnel for their assistance in unloading and distributing the family food packs,” he added. (PNA)

GOVERNMENT AID. President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., together with Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, turns over a ceremonial check to Masbate Governor Richard Kho during his visit to the province on Wednesday (Oct. 1, 2025). DOLE reported that over PHP48 million in various forms of assistance was provided for Masbate province. (Photo courtesy of PCO)