Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday instructed the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to maintain support for victims of the Parola Compound fire in Binondo, Manila, ensuring their comfort at evacuation centers.

According to Philippines News Agency, President Marcos personally distributed relief goods to affected residents at the Leonardo B. Fugoso Sports Complex in Delpan, Manila. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian announced that each family will receive PHP10,000 in financial assistance through the agency's Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program. Additionally, the National Housing Authority will provide PHP30,000 for rebuilding and recovery efforts.

Beyond financial aid, the DSWD is committed to supplying essential non-food and food items, including family packs, cooking kits, and hygiene kits, to the displaced residents. Gatchalian expressed gratitude to Manila City Mayor Francisco 'Isko Moreno' Domagoso for the city's swift response to the crisis.

The fire has reportedly destroyed the homes of approximately 2,140 families, with local authorities anticipating a higher final assessment. Gatchalian mentioned ongoing discussions with local social welfare officials who expect the number of affected families to increase due to people being absent during the census.

The DSWD is focused on ensuring the evacuation facility in Delpan, located adjacent to the sports complex, remains comfortable for displaced residents. DSWD Field Office-National Capital Region Assistant Regional Director for Operations Bienvenido Barbosa noted that while the Manila City local government serves as the first responder, the DSWD supports the efforts under directives from the Marcos administration, providing augmentation assistance through the President's initiative.