DSWD chief assures continuous support for Cebu communities hit by Typhoon Tino

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian met with the local chief executives of Mandaue City and Cebu City on Friday to assess the situation of communities affected by Typhoon Tino and to coordinate ongoing relief operations.

Gatchalian met with Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano to relay President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to provide full augmentation support to affected areas.

“We assured him that, upon the directive of the President, DSWD stands ready to augment the needs of the typhoon victims in the city — from family food packs to other essential kits. After this, recovery cash assistance will also be processed,” the DSWD chief said in a Facebook post.

He also met with Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival Sr. to discuss recovery and assistance plans, as Cebu City is among the areas hardest hit by the storm. Gatchalian said the agency will continue supplying food packs and financial recovery aid.

DSWD Field Office 7 in Central Visayas is operating relief distribution round-the-clock. Personnel from the Visayas Disaster Resource Center in Mandaue City, along with the Bureau of Fire Protection and the Philippine Navy, have been loading and dispatching supplies to affected communities since early Friday.

Asst. Secretary Irene Dumlao, spokesperson for the Disaster Response Management Group, stressed that aid is given not only inside evacuation centers but also to displaced families staying with relatives or remaining in damaged homes.

“Hindi lang po sa evacuation centers nagdi-distribute ang DSWD ng relief supplies. Tinitiyak natin na pati ‘yung mga pamilyang nasa labas ng evacuation sites—kahit nasa bahay pa nila o temporarily nakikitira ay natutulungan pa rin,” Dumlao said.

She added that recovery support will continue beyond initial relief. “Ang mahalaga, tuloy-tuloy ang suporta hanggang makabangon nang lubos ang mga komunidad na tinamaan ng Bagyong Tino.”

The DSWD said it remains “on active duty 24/7” in line with the President’s directive to assist all disaster-stricken communities.