Camarines norte: More than 1,900 families in a town in Camarines Norte received a total of PHP9.7 million cash aid from the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5).

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD-5 Regional Director Norman Laurio reported that the beneficiaries were families severely affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, internationally known as Trami, in October 2024. The cash grants, each amounting to PHP5,032, were distributed to the families in Paracale, Camarines Norte earlier this week.

Laurio stated that the Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) program is designed to help citizens recover quickly from the impacts of disasters. He emphasized that the DSWD Bicol is committed to ensuring the welfare of citizens by providing effective and immediate social protection programs. These programs aim to assist in the recovery of families and communities affected by damage to their homes and livelihoods through the ECT.

Claudio Villareal, the chief of DSWD's Disaster Response Management Division in Bicol, explained that the cash grants are part of the early recovery and rehabilitation phase for families affected by Kristine. He noted that the agency has transitioned into the rehabilitation phase of the program, having completed the response phase where assistance was provided shortly after the disaster. The aid is based on thorough assessments, as families still require additional support.

The agency continues to offer assistance to families affected by weather disturbances, with "Kristine" having submerged several towns in the province.