Bicol: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 5 (Bicol) has delivered nearly 10,000 family food packs to support two provinces in the region. This effort was carried out on Wednesday to aid families affected by the southwest monsoon and Tropical Storm Dante.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD-5 Director Norman Laurio stated that the food packs were distributed to areas including Oas and Polangui in Albay, and five towns in Camarines Norte. The relief initiative aims to provide immediate assistance to families impacted by these weather events.

Oas received 1,885 food packs, Polangui was provided with 3,000, Labo received 1,728, Paracale 1,029, Santa Elena 742, Jose Panganiban 695, and Capalonga 806. Laurio emphasized that the distribution is a rapid response effort to meet the needs of those affected by the calamity.

In addition to distributing food packs, Laurio conducted an on-site assessment of the rivers near Bato, Camarines Sur, and the landslide areas in Polangui, Albay. He also evaluated the status of affected fisherfolk to understand their immediate needs, as their livelihoods are significantly impacted by such disasters.