Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and its field offices (FOs) were placed on full alert on Friday as Tropical Storm Nando intensified with a possibility of becoming a 'super typhoon' over the weekend. Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao of the Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) stated that the DSWD has already prepositioned family food packs (FFPs) and non-food items in key strategic hubs to ensure the immediate distribution of relief goods.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DSWD spokesperson mentioned that the department has more than 2.6 million boxes of FFPs in its warehouses nationwide, ready for deployment to local government units (LGUs). Dumlao emphasized the importance of timely assistance, highlighting the need for immediate and careful service during calamities, aligning with the President's directive to ensure no one goes hungry during such times.

As of the 11 a.m. weather bulletin, Nando (international name Ragasa) slightly accelerated westward over the Philippine Sea. It was located 1,005 km east of Central Luzon as of 10 a.m. While preparing for Nando, Dumlao stated that the agency would continue to facilitate the distribution of FFPs and non-food items to families and individuals affected by Tropical Depression Mirasol, which is now outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

For quick delivery of aid and other assistance, LGUs were advised to coordinate with the FOs for possible augmentation requests. Based on the Sept. 19 Disaster Response Operations Management, Information and Communication report, more than PHP2.27 million worth of food packs and non-food items have been provided to Mirasol-hit residents in Regions 1 (Ilocos Region), 2 (Cagayan Valley), 3 (Central Luzon), 5 (Bicol Region), 6 (Western Visayas), and Cordillera Administrative Region.