DSWD-Bicol readies P220-M relief items amid bad weather

LEGAZPI CITY - The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Bicol assured the public that the agency has sufficient family food packs (FFPs) and other relief items ready for distribution to those affected by weather disturbances. In an interview on Wednesday, Carl James Cabarles, DSWD disaster risk reduction management division information officer, said a total of 121,867 family food packs worth PHP89.3 million, and 78,331 non-food items worth PHP121.6 million, are on standby in prepositioning sites and nine warehouses across the region. "In total, we have PHP220 million worth of assistance ready for augmentation. We are ready and prepared to assist the public and local government units during a disaster or any calamities. Our central office is always ready to replenish upon request of additional FFPs," he said. Cabarles said DSWD-Bicol also has a PHP3-million standby fund ready for disbursement should there be a need to buy additional food packs and non-food kits. He said they already prov ided PHP3.3 million worth of food packs to 5,503 families in Albay. "DSWD Bicol is closely coordinating with the local government units to monitor the situation and determine if assistance is needed for the affected communities," he added. Each pack can provide food for a family of five for at least two days. The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said Tropical Depression Gener, now outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), and Tropical Storm Helen continue to enhance the southwest monsoon, or "habagat". (PNA) Source: Philippines News Agency