DSWD sends family food packs to Batanes after tsunami warning

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said on Saturday that it will send family food packs (FFPs) to residents in Batanes after a tsunami warning was declared in the province last April 3.

The tsunami warning was issued after a magnitude 7.2 earthquake rocked Taiwan.

READ: Taiwan earthquake: OFWs injured rise to 4 

According to DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, 600 FFPs were initially sent on April 5.

“The family food packs are part of the DSWD’s augmentation support to the provincial government of Batanes which is one of the three provinces alerted for the possible occurrence of tsunami waves.  As instructed by Secretary Rex Gatchalian, he wants that relief supplies are ready for any eventuality,” Dumlao said.

Dumlao added that 1,200 FFPs will be brought by the Philippine Air Force (PAF) on Saturday, while another 5,200 FFPs are yet to be sent.

READ: Taiwan’s strongest earthquake in 25 years kills nine; 50 missing

“Our DSWD Field Offices in Ilocos Region and Cagayan Valley are constantly coordinating with the concerned regional Offices of Civil Defense (OCD) and PAF to ensure the smooth delivery of the family food packs to the recipient local government,” she added.

The Department of Migrant Workers said that as of Friday, four Filipinos in Taiwan were injured, and none died from the incident.