By Jose Cielito Reganit | Philippine News Agency
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Wednesday thanked South Korea for its 1,632 metric tons of rice donation as part of its government’s continued humanitarian assistance to Filipinos affected by disasters.
The DSWD chief also cited the support of the United Nations-World Food Programme (UN-WFP), which facilitated the donations.
“We extend our sincerest appreciation to the ROK (Republic of Korea) and the UN-WFP for your support and generous donation of 1,632 metric tons of rice to help those affected by the recent combined effects of the southwest monsoon and typhoons Crising, Dante, and Emong,” Gatchalian said in his message. “Thank you to our friends from the ROK and the WFP for your compassionate heart in extending resources for the benefit of individuals and families affected by disasters.”
He said the donation will go a long way in helping disaster-hit families find ways to recover and restore normalcy.
“Rest assured that we will ensure our immediate and sustained provision of humanitarian assistance to the families affected and exert all efforts to distribute your donations to those in most need,” Gatchalian said.
Gatchalian, Ambassador of the ROK to the Philippines Lee Sang-Hwa, and WFP representative and country director Regis Chapman signed the deed of donation at the DSWD National Resource Operations Center in Pasay City.
The donated rice will be repacked and included in family food packs (FFPs).
Based on rough estimates, the 1,632 metric tons of rice or 40,000 sacks of rice would be able to cover some 280,000 FFPs with six kilos of rice each.
South Korea also donated 4,000 metric tons of rice when the country was devastated by Severe Tropical Storm in October 2024.
Meanwhile, Lee expressed sympathy with the Filipino people following the damage caused by the recent calamities.
“I commend the DSWD on the able leadership of Secretary Gatchalian for his dedication to the Filipino families during times of adversity. In this context, the Korean government is honored to support the Philippines’ disaster response and peace-building efforts through this contribution,” Lee said.
