by Perfecto Raymundo, Jr.
MANILA — With the entry of tropical depression “Usman” in the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR), the quick response teams in the different Field Offices of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) along the path of the weather disturbance are now activated for disaster operations in their respective areas.
In its forecast, the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the effects of the tropical depression will be felt today (December 27) in Region V (Bicol Region).
“Even though it is the holiday season, the DSWD workforce is prepared to handle the effects of Tropical Depression Usman,” DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Glenda Relova said in a statement Thursday.
“We have enough prepositioned goods to be immediately distributed to affected areas, should the need arise,” Relova added.
The DSWD-Field Office V reported that there are 6,323 food packs available at the DSWD warehouse in Bogtong, Legazpi City.
The DSWD has total stockpiles and standby funds of PHP1,279,393,332 such as 404,948 family food packs worth PHP144,875,074.92 and available food and non-food items worth PHP919,900,075.91 ready for distribution to affected areas.
The DSWD-Field Office V has also allocated 27,337 family food packs and 37,600 pieces of malong to be distributed to the provinces of Albay, Camarines Sur, Sorsogon, Camarines Norte and Catanduanes as augmentation assistance, when necessary.
