OCD earmarks P8-M aid for Batanes ahead of La Niña

Provincial Administrator Justine Jerico Socito and Batanes Gov. Marilou Cayco accept one of the seven generators from Office of Civil Defense Undersecretary Ariel Nepumuceno, Assistant Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, and Region 2 Director Leon DG Rafael on May 21, 2024. Photo from OCD

MANILA, Philippines — The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) earmarked P8 million worth of assistance for typhoon-prone Batanes in preparation for the La Niña weather phenomenon.

La Niña, which often follows an El Niño weather event, will bring more rain than usual, according to the state weather bureau.

“Batanes is prone to strong typhoons and is always isolated,” said Office of Civil Defense Administrator Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno in a statement on Friday.

“The key is pre-positioning adequate relief goods and equipment so these will be available immediately when they need them,” he said.

Part of the assistance package are seven generator sets, non-food items, shelter repair kits, hygiene kits, and ropes that can help more than 400 families.

Batanes Governor Marilou Cayco received the donation in a recent turnover ceremony held at the Batanes State College.