GOV'T INTERVENTIONS. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 5 (Bicol) has distributed PHP6.6 million in cash and in-kind assistance to victims of fire incidents across the region from January to June. DSWD-5 Director Norman S. Laurio said in a statement on Wednesday (July 10, 2024) that the assistance provided to fire victims also included psychosocial interventions, especially for children and senior citizens. (Infographics courtesy of DSWD-5)
LEGAZPI CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 5 (Bicol) has distributed PHP6.6 million in cash and in-kind assistance to victims of fire incidents across the region from January to June.
In an interview on Wednesday, Jastine Joy Escuro, DSWD-5 Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program focal person, said the assistance, provided through various DSWD programs, benefited 284 families, supporting their recovery and rebuilding their lives.
She said through the AICS Program, those affected by fire incidents received cash relief assistance totaling PHP2.6 million; family food and non-food items from the Disaster Response Management Division, PHP2.4 million; and the Sustainable Livelihood Program, PHP1.6 million.
"The funds have been allocated to provide immediate financial assistance to families who have lost their homes and belongings due to devastating fires," she said.
Escuro said the aid beneficiaries included about 90 stall owners at the Iriga City Public Market in Camarines Sur, whose livelihoods were affected by a fire incident in February. The other fire victims are residents of the five other provinces of the region – Masbate, Albay, Sorsogon, Camarines Norte, and Catanduanes.
DSWD-5’s timely intervention, she said, has been crucial in addressing the urgent needs of the victims, ensuring they receive the necessary support to start anew.
Meanwhile, DSWD-5 Director Norman S. Laurio said in a statement that the assistance provided to the fire victims also included psychosocial interventions, especially for children and senior citizens.
“We are committed to providing immediate and effective relief to those affected not only by fire incidents but also by all natural and man-made disasters,” Laurio said.
“In DSWD, our goal is not only to lead in the formulation of social welfare and development services to aid the poor, vulnerable, and disadvantaged communities. Through the department’s programs under the Crisis Intervention Section and Disaster Response Management Division, our goal is to alleviate the suffering of individuals disrupted by sudden crises and assist them in their journey towards recovery,” he added.
DSWD-5 continues to work closely with local government units and other agencies to ensure that assistance promptly reaches those in need. (PNA)
