The government has sent financial aid and relief supplies to families affected by the southwest monsoon in Matanong, Maguindanao del Norte, over the weekend.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) announced the aid, part of the agency’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICs) program, was distributed by Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian and Special Assistant to the President Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo.
“We are here to ensure all needs are met. You have the full support of the national and BARMM governments,” Lagdameo said on behalf of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
In Matanog, 76 residents with partially damaged houses received P5,000 each, totaling P380,000, while 286 residents with completely damaged houses received P10,000 each, amounting to P2.86 million. Burial assistance of P10,000 was also given to two beneficiaries.
At the Balabagan Evacuation Center, 157 residents with partially damaged houses received P5,000 each, totaling P785,000, while 10 residents with completely damaged houses received PHP 10,000 each, totaling P100,000. Burial assistance of P10,000 was also provided to two residents.
Gatchalian emphasized proactive disaster preparedness measures for a swift response to weather-related events in BARMM and other Mindanao regions.
A disaster briefing was held at the Tactical Operations Group XII in Maguindanao del Norte.
This was attended by various officials, including DSWD Region 12 Director Loreta Cabaya, Maguindanao del Norte Governor Abdulraof Macacua, and Cotabato City Mayor Bruce Matabalao.
The briefing included reports on damages and ongoing assistance efforts, and discussions on future risk mitigation and community resilience.
Cabinet secretaries also met with Lanao del Sur officials to assess further assistance needs and determine additional support from the national government.
