DSWD Director Felino O. Castro V discusses the measures and plans of the relief mission team to immediately respond to the needs of Typhoon ‘Ferdie’ victims during the briefing with local officials, volunteers, and response team members.

After the successful arrival of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) relief team in Batanes, the agency vows to strengthen its relief mission, in coordination with the provincial government of Batanes and other member agencies of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), in delivering relief items and providing augmentation support to other isolated typhoon-hit areas.

As of 6AM today, September 18, 2,710 families or 10,344 have been displaced in the provinces of Ilocos Norte, Cagayan and Batanes, of which, 20 families or 151 persons are still inside three evacuation centers, while 2,651 families or 10,063 persons temporarily took shelter with their relatives and friends.

The data on the number of affected families is said to increase since the town of Itbayat remains isolated and without communication.

“The government’s response and relief efforts will continue. We hope to immediately assess the extent of the damage brought by Typhoon ‘Ferdie’ and to be able to extent aid in Itbayat through a follow up relief mission. They still need food supplies, materials to secure their houses, and emergency communication,” said DSWD Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo.

Another set of relief mission team, headed by DSWD Director Felino O. Castro V, is on its way to deliver 2,000 additional canned goods and generator sets in Batanes, which is currently under the state of calamity.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Hope V. Hervilla is also joining the team to provide inputs and assist in the relief mission in Batanes.

“Under the directives of the Secretary, we are to assess the current situation of the typhoon survivors for additional assistance and support, including those located in the isolated areas. We plan to reach them immediately,” said Asec. Hervilla.

Also, the Rapid Damage and Needs Assessment (RDANA) Team is already conducting evaluation to determine programs for recovery and rehabilitation for the typhoon victims. ###