The House of Representatives launched the “Tabang Bikol, Tindog Oragon” relief caravan with 24 truckloads of food and non-food items for Bicol following a series of typhoons.
In close coordination with Speaker Martin Romualdez and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. rolled out nearly P750-million to fund the initiative, which would benefit 150,000 Filipinos across the Bicol region.
Romualdez, the program’s main proponent, said the relief caravan would support communities in Albay, Camarines Norte, and Camarines Sur as they recover from the devastation caused by typhoons ‘Carina,’ ‘Kristine’ and ‘Pepito’ in recent months.
“This is the directive of our beloved President, to help the typhoon victims in Bicol. This initiative is our way of showing that we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our countrymen in Bicol during these challenging times,” the Speaker said in a statement on Sunday.
“‘Tabang Bikol’ is not only all about financial aid but also a symbol of concern and unity with the entire Filipino people,” Romualdez added.
The relief effort includes three major activities—financial assistance payouts, a mini-Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair and the distribution of relief goods.
According to House deputy secretary general Sofonias Gabonada, the initiative is also spearheaded by Ako Bicol party-list Rep. Zaldy Co toward a holistic and sustainable recovery addressing both immediate and long-term needs.
The distribution of financial aid under the DSWD’s Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situations program will begin on Nov. 18. The mini-BPSF, scheduled for Nov. 21, will offer residents access to vital government services, including housing, healthcare and livelihood programs.
Romualdez emphasized the importance of combining financial aid with services that foster long-term aid to the people. A key feature of the initiative is the distribution of relief goods gathered from a nationwide donation drive, he said.
Dozens of truckloads carrying food, hygiene kits, clothing and other essentials depart from the House of Representatives on Monday to bring aid to thousands of families.
The logistics effort reflects the commitment of the government and private donors to deliver tangible relief to affected areas. The event also highlights the importance of partnerships in disaster response.
It underscores Romualdez’s personal dedication to disaster relief with his experience in the aftermath of super typhoon “Yolanda” that flattened Eastern Visayas in 2013.
The Speaker champions swift and comprehensive responses to ensure that affected families receive both immediate assistance and the tools to rebuild their lives with dignity.
Nov. 21 will also see the ceremonial turnover of relief goods during the mini-BPSF events in Naga City, Pili in Camarines Sur and Polangui, Albay.
