DSWD Initiates Grant Distribution to Typhoon Egay Victims in Ilocos
CANDON CITY, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has commenced the disbursement of livelihood assistance settlement grants (LSG) to families in Ilocos Sur affected by Typhoon Egay, as confirmed by DSWD Assistant Secretary for Disaster Response Management Group Irene Dumlao.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative has already benefited an initial 484 families, with a total of PHP4.8 million distributed during a ceremony at St. Joseph Institute Gymnasium on March 22, 2024. This effort is part of a broader campaign by the DSWD’s Field Office-1 in the Ilocos Region, aimed at aiding approximately 3,000 families impacted by the typhoon.
Dumlao emphasized that the LSG is designed to support the long-term recovery and rehabilitation of those whose livelihoods were disrupted by the disaster. The grants are particularly targeted at residents from vulnerable and economically disadvantaged communities in municipalities such as Alilem, Sigay, Cervantes, Quirino, Del Pilar, Sugpon, and Suyo.
The assistant secretary highlighted that this distribution marks the beginning of a series of payouts scheduled for April to ensure all targeted families receive assistance. These efforts underscore the government’s commitment to addressing the needs of populations affected by natural calamities.
Typhoon Egay, known internationally as ‘Doksuri,’ escalated to a super typhoon category, causing significant devastation in northern Luzon and affecting various parts of central and southern Luzon on July 25, 2023. The storm resulted in 137 fatalities and extensive property and infrastructure damage.
The grant distribution event featured the presence of Assistant Secretary for Specialized Programs Florentino Y. Loyola Jr., alongside local dignitaries including Ilocos Sur 2nd District Representative Kristine Singsong-Meehan and Candon City Mayor Eric Singson, illustrating a unified effort to support the affected communities in their recovery journey.