Legazpi city: The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) has extended more than PHP22 million worth of relief aid to families and communities hit by tropical cyclone Opong, particularly in Masbate province. DSWD-5 Director Norman Laurio confirmed the aid, which includes both food and non-food items, aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure timely and effective disaster relief.

According to Philippines News Agency, Laurio emphasized the agency's active coordination with local government units (LGUs) through its satellite offices to closely monitor affected areas. "All warehouses have a sufficient stockpile on standby, ready for release to LGUs requesting resource augmentation. Our logistics are now directed to Masbate province," he stated in an interview.

Office of Civil Defense-Bicol (OCD-5) Director Claudio Yucot reported that 28,299 families, or 116,729 individuals, have been displaced by Opong, which exited the Philippine Area of Responsibility this morning. Of this number, 14,117 families (51,158 persons) are taking shelter in 783 evacuation centers, while 14,182 families (65,571 persons) are staying with relatives.

Yucot also revealed there were three reported fatalities in Masbate-a 30-year-old, a six-year-old, and a 16-year-old from Masbate City and Monreal town-based on the report of the provincial disaster risk reduction management office. "These reports will still be validated by the Management of the Dead and Missing Cluster," he added.

OCD-5 has recorded 64 partially damaged houses and 19 totally destroyed houses due to the cyclone's impact.