Bicol region: The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol Region (DSWD-5) has disbursed PHP24.6 million in Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) to families impacted by the recent typhoon in Camarines Sur and Camarines Norte.

According to Philippines News Agency, Claudio Villareal, chief of the DSWD Bicol - Disaster Response and Management Division, disclosed that 4,111 beneficiaries from the municipalities of Cabusao, Milaor in Camarines Sur, and Daet in Camarines Norte received financial aid between March 24 and 26. Villareal emphasized that the distribution of financial aid under the ECT program will continue until March 31.

The ECT is a multi-purpose cash assistance initiative aimed at helping families recover from the adverse effects of disasters. It is carried out in coordination with local government units to ensure a streamlined process.

This initiative is part of the government's enhanced disaster response strategy, aligning with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to provide timely and effective interventions to safeguard the welfare of Filipinos during crises.