By Jennifer P. Rendon
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) – Field Office VI, along with local government units (LGUs) affected by Typhoon Kristine, has distributed PHP 2,339,081.32 worth of goods.
The aid was provided through Family Food Packs distributed to affected families in Aklan, Iloilo, Capiz, Antique, and Negros Occidental provinces, as well as in Iloilo City and Bacolod City.
As of 12 noon on October 24, the DSWD had released PHP 1,164,662.32 in assistance, while the LGUs contributed PHP 1,174,419 worth of goods from their own resources.
“We recognize the fast action of our staff and those from the LGUs. The prepositioning of food packs has been very helpful because it allows faster and easier withdrawal of goods. The items are already strategically located at different sites in the region,” said Arwin Razo, DSWD-6 OIC regional director.
As of the latest reports, 169 houses were reported damaged, with 20 totally destroyed and 149 partially damaged.
A total of 9,456 families, comprising 37,873 individuals, have been affected.
According to the DSWD-6, 1,207 families are currently staying in evacuation centers, while 275 families have sought shelter with relatives and friends.
Typhoon Kristine has impacted 158 barangays across 35 municipalities and cities in the region.
The DSWD continues to receive updates from LGUs to coordinate the dispatch of necessary resource augmentation.
Razo has activated the Quick Response Team of DSWD-6.
The agency also has PHP 147,214,929.49 in standby funds and stockpiles ready for deployment. Of this amount, PHP 3 million is designated for standby funds, while PHP 144,214,929.49 is allocated for food and non-food items.
