Davao Region Receives P1.88 Billion in Aid for Shearline Disaster Recovery

DAVAO — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office-11 has allocated approximately PHP1.88 billion in emergency cash transfers to aid families impacted by the shearline and trough of low pressure area that affected the Davao region earlier in 2024.

According to Philippines News Agency, this substantial financial support is part of the department’s commitment to assisting in the recovery and rebuilding efforts of the communities devastated by the natural disasters in the Davao Region. This initiative follows a directive from DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian ensuring comprehensive emergency support. As of July 5, emergency cash transfers have been distributed to 221,545 beneficiaries across Davao Del Norte, Davao Oriental, and Davao De Oro.

In detail, Davao Del Norte received over PHP671.5 million for 67,421 beneficiaries; Davao Oriental was allocated over PHP921.4 million for 92,516 families; and Davao De Oro received PHP306.8 million benefiting 61,608 residents. The second round of these cash payouts took place in several towns, including Cateel and Caraga in Davao Oriental, as well as Nabunturan and Compostela in Davao De Oro, spanning late June to early July.

The emergency cash transfer program is designed as an adaptive strategy to bridge the gap between immediate disaster relief and long-term recovery, providing affected families with direct financial aid to meet their most urgent needs. Dumalo emphasized that this cash assistance allows beneficiaries to purchase essential items beyond what is provided in the standard DSWD family food packs.