Manila: Camarines Sur The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) has provided ready-to-eat food packs to locally stranded individuals at Pasacao Port in Camarines Sur following the suspension of sea travel due to Typhoon Inday.
According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD Bicol Disaster Response and Management Division chief Claudio Villareal mentioned that in addition to food, the agency may also offer psychosocial support services, referral services, and coordination with local government units (LGUs) and partner agencies. Villareal stated that non-food items such as sleeping kits, hygiene kits, family clothing kits, and transportation assistance might be provided when necessary through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), pending assessment by a social worker.
Further support could involve the continuation of ready-to-eat food provision or a transition to family food packs if travelers remain stranded for a longer period. DSWD has the ability to deploy its mobile kitchen to assist LGUs in preparing hot meals if community kitchens are unavailable.
Coordination efforts by DSWD with LGUs also include providing temporary shelter or evacuation facilities and augmenting modular tents. Non-food items like sleeping kits and hygiene kits are also part of the relief measures. Additionally, the local government of Pandan, Catanduanes, has requested assistance from DSWD for similar support.
