ILOILO — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has accelerated its disaster relief operations, deploying over P12.4 million worth of assistance to families severely affected by Typhoon “Tino” across Western Visayas.
As of November 5, DSWD Region 6 reported the distribution of 21,545 Family Food Packs (FFPs) and 38 Ready-to-Eat Food (RTEF) items, collectively valued at P12,447,000, to households displaced by flooding, landslides, and strong winds in the wake of the typhoon.
The agency’s latest monitoring data showed that 152,514 families or 489,109 individuals were affected regionwide, with 76,773 families (246,535 persons) sheltered in 3,066 evacuation centers, while another 37,300 families (117,232 persons) stayed with relatives and friends.
The most affected areas were Capiz (57,797 families), Iloilo (39,928), and Antique (27,768), followed by Aklan (23,454) and Guimaras (3,567).
OIC-Regional Director Joselito Estember said the agency’s rapid deployment of resources was guided by a “whole-of-government” approach emphasizing speed and coordination.
“Strategic planning and rapid mobilization of resources are paramount to meet the needs of the affected communities,” Estember said.
Assistant Regional Director for Operations Katherine Joy Lamprea reminded field teams to stay alert and maintain coordination with Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officers (MSWDOs), especially in towns that have yet to submit damage and needs reports.
“Close coordination is essential to ensure that no family is left without support,” Lamprea stressed.
The DSWD said it remains focused on sustaining relief delivery and is now moving toward early recovery interventions, including the provision of non-food items and livelihood support for displaced families.
As part of its recovery strategy, the agency continues to work with local governments and community groups to strengthen response mechanisms and promote resilience among affected communities.
“While the immediate priority is to provide food and shelter,” Estember said, “our long-term goal is to help families rebuild their lives and restore normalcy as soon as possible.”
Meanwhile, Typhoon Tino slightly intensified as it moved away from northern Palawan and over the West Philippine Sea, the state weather bureau said Wednesday.
In its 11 a.m. bulletin, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) noted that heavy rains, severe winds, and possible storm surges were likely over Palawan and nearby areas.
PAGASA said Tino will continue to move west-northwestward over the West Philippine Sea and is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) by Wednesday night or early Thursday morning.
The typhoon may re-intensify within the next 12 hours and could reach its peak intensity while traversing the open sea./PN
