DSWD personnel prepare food packs for distribution in various areas in Central Luzon (File photo dated August 31, 2022)
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said on Tuesday that its disaster management and response teams are on standby for Holy Week.
In a statement, the agency noted that all 16 field offices are ready to respond to any incidents that may occur during the religious observation.
READ: Makati City issues Holy Week traffic, rerouting advisory
“Under the directive of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, all Quick Response Teams (QRT) of the Department will remain on standby and ready for deployment should any event necessitate their intervention,” DSWD Assistant Secretary for Disaster Response Management Group Irene Dumlao said in the statement.
“Our National Resource and Logistics Management Bureau (NRLMB) is also on top of replenishing food and non-food items necessary for resource augmentation to local government units, whenever necessary,” she noted.
She also said the DSWD is coordinating with the state weather bureau for relevant weather updates and information.
READ: ADB Avenue in Pasig closed from March 28 to 30
As of posting time, DSWD maintains more than P388 million worth of standby funds and over one million family food packs nationwide in time for the Holy Week.
“We urge the public to stay safe, remain vigilant, and heighten awareness to avoid emergencies, particularly during the Lenten Season break,” Dumlao added.