Mindanao, Philippines – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has provided over PHP11 million in assistance to families affected by the magnitude 6.8 earthquake that struck the southern part of Mindanao on November 17. This aid is part of the department's rapid response to support those impacted by the natural disaster.
According to Philippines News Agency, the department's response team, under the directive of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, swiftly mobilized its field offices to deliver necessary assistance to affected families. The DSWD has been working closely with local government units (LGUs) to ensure the prompt delivery of family food packs (FFPs) and cash aid through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
In the Davao Region, the DSWD's Field Office 11 distributed approximately 1,015 FFPs to affected families in the municipalities of Don Marcelino and Sarangani in Davao Occidental. Additionally, the DSWD Field Office 12 (Soccsksargen) provided support to the provincial government of Sarangani, the municipality of Glan, and General Santos City, delivering 8,200 food boxes.
Lopez highlighted that aside from food packs, the department also extended cash assistance to meet the urgent needs of affected families, enabling them to purchase additional necessary items. Around 2,317 beneficiaries from General Santos City and the municipalities of Glan and Malapatan in Sarangani have received direct cash assistance.
The DSWD remains committed to providing timely and efficient support to communities affected by the earthquake. The department recorded a total impact on 3,587 families or more than 15,700 individuals from 42 barangays in Davao Occidental, Sarangani, and South Cotabato provinces. Lopez assured that food packs and essential items are prepositioned and ready for immediate distribution.
To date, the DSWD maintains over PHP2.8 billion in standby funds and a stockpile of resources available for immediate deployment. The department continues to monitor the situation of affected families and coordinates with relevant LGUs to ensure a coordinated and effective response in the ongoing relief efforts.