Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian met with local officials in Aurora province last Wednesday to discuss ways to expedite government assistance and services for the eight municipalities affected by super typhoon “Uwan.”

Gatchalian, accompanied by Undersecretary Diana Rose S. Cajipe, met with Governor Isidro P. Galban, Representative Rommel T. Angara, Vice Governor Patrick Alexis Angara and the eight municipal mayors of Aurora.

The meeting aimed to strengthen coordination between the national and local governments to hasten the delivery of aid and implementation of rehabilitation programs for families severely affected by the super typhoon.

To recall, the province of Aurora was placed under a state of calamity due to the extensive damage caused by typhoon “Uwan,” which affected more than 31,000 families, or over 107,000 individuals.

The officials discussed the current situation in the affected areas, necessary steps for immediate rehabilitation, and the establishment of a coordination mechanism to ensure all residents in need receive government assistance.

Gatchalian revealed that the DSWD continues to provide immediate help, including family food packs, emergency cash assistance, and psychological support for families whose houses and livelihoods were destroyed.

He also stressed the importance of clear collaboration between national and local government agencies to ensure all Aurora residents receive ample and timely assistance.