By Katrina Gracia Consebido
Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. ordered on Wednesday, July 27, all DILG regional offices to coordinate with the Philippine National Police and the Bureau of Fire Protection in providing relief and rescue operations assistance to earthquake victims.
Abalos said he has given instructions to the concerned agencies to “immediately provide assistance to affected Filipinos,” and tasked regional offices “to check the presence of the local chief executives.”
The official gave orders to check for “critical lifelines” including power and water supply, as well as “stability and access” to communications, roads, and bridges.
He also called for an initial damage assessment of all local government units affected, and the monitoring of the availability of health facilities.
“We’re just waiting for the feedback right now but I’ve already informed those affected, especially the hardest hit province of Abra to respond to the needs of the people,” Abalos said. –ag
