Over 12K Uwan-affected families get emergency cash aid

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) is distributing financial assistance through its Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) program for over 12,000 families affected by Super Typhoon Uwan in the provinces of Catanduanes and Sorsogon.

In a report on Wednesday, DSWD Bicol Regional Director Norman Laurio said the ECT payout began on Monday and would continue until Dec. 18, with a total fund of more than PHP96 million.

Laurio said the assistance serves as a crucial financial lifeline for families whose homes were severely damaged by the recent storm.

In Catanduanes, a total of 3,524 families across the towns of Pandan and Caramoran will receive immediate cash aid.

In Pandan, 440 households with totally damaged homes will receive PHP10,263 each, while 2,283 families with partially damaged houses will be provided PHP5,487 each.

About 801 families in Caramoran with totally damaged homes will also receive PHP10,263 each.

Laurio said the initiative mobilizes over PHP25 million in relief funds for the affected areas of Pandan and Caramoran.

"It is part of the government’s swift response to expedite recovery efforts in regions stricken by calamities. The payout directly implements President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to accelerate rehabilitation and provide immediate relief to affected communities," he said.

Meanwhile, in Masbate province, the agency launched its flagship “Liwanag at Tubig Assistance and Welfare (LITAW)” program.

The program provides support to households that faced electricity disruptions and water shortages as the storm swept through the region.

A total of 3,302 beneficiaries from the municipalities of Ticao Island, specifically San Jacinto, San Fernando, Monreal and Batuan, will receive PHP2,000 each. (PNA)

PAYOUT. Personnel from Department of Social Welfare and Development assist a beneficiary during the payout of Emergency Cash Transfers at Caramoran, Catanduanes on Tuesday (Dec. 16, 2025). More than 12,000 families from Catanduanes and Sorsogon will benefit from the program. (Photo courtesy of DSWD-5)