DSWD readies relief for typhoon victims

DSWD Secretary Dr. Judy M. Taguiwalo.
INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/ MARIANNE BERMUDEZ

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is prepared as the country braces for the damages that may be caused by rains enhanced by the southwest monsoon or “habagat.”

Social Welfare secretary Judy Taguiwalo on Friday said the agency was “on alert and standby for any emergencies.”

As of Friday, DSWD has activated its quick response teams and has been monitoring the situation in the provinces of Bataan, Zambales and Bulacan.

“Some 7,000 food packs have been prepositioned and ready for distribution in Zambales,” Taguiwalo said in a statement.

“Thirty thousand food packs are on standby in the DSWD Field Office 3 as staff continue to coordinate with local authorities regarding possible emergencies.” she added.

On Friday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) issued a rainfall warning in Metro Manila and nearby provinces due to the nonstop monsoon-enhanced rains.

READ: ‘Butchoy’ to exit PAR Friday afternoon; monsoon rains to continue

The rains are caused by the southwest monsoon enhanced by Typhoon “Butchoy” (international name: Nepartak).

Communities, especially in low-lying areas, are alerted for possible flooding and evacuation.