Negros occidental: The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Negros Island Region (DSWD-NIR) has strategically positioned 6,000 ready-to-eat food (RTEF) boxes across six major ports in Negros Occidental. This initiative aims to provide timely assistance to families affected by disasters and emergencies.

According to Philippines News Agency, this proactive measure by the DSWD is part of its commitment to ensure efficient service delivery during disruptions. The RTEF packs are intended for stranded passengers in the event of sea transport interruptions. The allocation includes 3,000 RTEF boxes for Banago Port in Bacolod City, 1,000 boxes for Pulupandan's terminal management offices, and 500 boxes each for San Carlos City, Escalante City, Sagay City, and E.B. Magalona.

The RTEF packs have been developed through a year-long collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology-Food and Nutrition Research Institute. Each pack contains items such as tuna paella, chicken pastil, arroz caldo, champorado, high-protein biscuits, and complementary infant food.

"For a more strategic and immediate disaster response, these are prepositioned in key ports across Negros Occidental," stated DSWD-NIR. The department has also designated the Philippine Ports Authority-managed Banago Port as the main storage hub for DSWD field offices and branches within Negros Occidental.