In a compassionate response to the devastation caused by the storms Kristine and Pepito in 2024, the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Bicol region (DSWD-5) has been actively distributing financial and food aid to the bereaved families. The initiative, which took place in Pili town, Camarines Sur province, saw 74 families receiving PHP250,000 each, along with essential grocery packs containing rice, drinking water, food items, hygiene supplies, and first-aid kits.
The aid distribution, which began last week, was spearheaded by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and supported by various partner organizations. The effort aims to alleviate the immediate and long-term burdens faced by these families as they attempt to rebuild their lives. Claudio Villareal Jr., the chief of DSWD-5’s Disaster Response and Management Division, confirmed that 57 families have already received assistance, with the remaining 17 scheduled for distribution soon.
In addition to the cash aid, families also benefited from the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, which provided burial assistance. Villareal emphasized the ongoing coordination to ensure swift and effective aid distribution.
Camarines Sur, one of the provinces most severely affected by the storms, saw many families struggling with damaged homes and scarce resources. Jenny Bermal, a recipient of the aid, expressed her gratitude and relief, noting that the assistance would significantly aid in starting a business and repairing her damaged home.
The distribution event on January 10 was attended by DSWD Regional Director Norman Laurio and Assistant Secretary for Regional Operations Paul Ledesma, highlighting the government’s dedication to supporting those in need during times of crisis.