Iloilo City Supports Thousands of Families Impacted by Severe Weather

Iloilo city: The city government has extended aid to 2,370 families, encompassing 8,134 individuals, affected by flooding and large waves due to the enhanced southwest monsoon and Severe Tropical Storm Crising, known internationally as Wipha.

According to Philippines News Agency, City Social Welfare and Development Office head Teresa Gelogo reported that 34 barangays were impacted by the adverse weather conditions. These included 17 barangays in the Jaro district, eight in Mandurriao, three in the City Proper, and two each in La Paz, Molo, and Arevalo. The affected families faced various challenges, such as partial damage to their homes, suspension of ferry services, and pre-emptive evacuations in coastal areas due to flooding.

As of Monday morning, 330 families were sheltered in 13 evacuation centers. Gelogo mentioned that the number of affected families is anticipated to rise as more data becomes available. The city government, along with support from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and other donors, provided relief assistance to the families.

The city's relief efforts included distributing 1,113 food packs, each containing two kilos of rice and four canned goods. The DSWD regional office contributed 865 food packs, which included six kilos of rice, 10 canned goods, and 10 powdered drinks, sufficient for three days. To address the immediate needs of those unable to cook, the city activated its community kitchen, using ingredients donated by the Iloilo Terminal Market Vendors Association and the City Agriculture's Office.

Gelogo emphasized that the city would continue to provide meals to evacuees through the community kitchen as long as they remain in the evacuation centers. Additionally, the city government appealed for donations of drinking water and food to bolster the ongoing relief efforts.