CAPIZ — Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Assistant Secretary for Regional Operations Paul Ledesma visited the province of Capiz on October 29, to assess the situation of residents affected by Tropical Storm “Ramil” and to coordinate ongoing and upcoming assistance efforts.
The visit, conducted in coordination with DSWD Region 6, included courtesy meetings with Gov. Fredenil H. Castro, Roxas City’s Mayor Ronnie Dadivas, and officials from the municipalities of Panit-an and Pontevedra. DSWD-6 Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Joselito Estember also joined the Asec. during the site visits and consultations.
In his discussions with local officials, Ledesma emphasized that his visit aimed not only to inspect the extent of the storm’s impact but also to identify additional needs and ensure that immediate interventions reach affected families.
During his courtesy call at the Capiz Provincial Capitol, Ledesma and Castro discussed the ongoing distribution of family food packs and the forthcoming emergency cash assistance for families severely affected by flooding brought by the storm. He assured the provincial government that the DSWD will expedite aid delivery, ensuring fairness and transparency in the distribution process.
Castro, for his part, expressed gratitude to the DSWD for its swift response and dependable support, citing the agency’s crucial role in helping Capiz recover.
“We are thankful for the DSWD’s prompt and consistent action in providing the needed relief to our constituents,” the governor said.
Meanwhile, Dadivas confirmed that the DSWD’s first batch of financial assistance for severely affected residents of Roxas City has been released. He also relayed the city’s priority needs to strengthen preparedness for future disasters.
DSWD representatives likewise underscored the agency’s readiness not only to provide food and cash aid but also to extend technical assistance to local government units in enhancing their local disaster response and management plans.
Ledesma reiterated the department’s continuing commitment under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., Special Assistant to the President Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr., and DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian — to ensure that all forms of government aid are adequate, timely, and accessible to those in need.
The visit, officials said, reaffirmed the strong partnership between the national government and local authorities in delivering compassionate service and strengthening disaster resilience across Capiz./PN
