DSWD-7 distributes relief goods to mountain barangays

CEBU, Philippines - What is the equivalent of three kilos of rice and 6-pack canned goods? Immediate relief for a hungry family of five. This was the immediate goal of every DSWD-7 worker deployed to the earthquake-devastated areas in Negros Oriental, namely the towns of Ayungon, Tayasan, Jimalalud and La Libertad and the city of Guihulngan.

The continuing aftershocks did not deter the DSWD-7 mission to deliver relief goods to places deemed impossible to reach by military/dump trucks due to critical conditions brought about by landslides, broken roads and bridges, among other security threats.

Notwithstanding the threats to the safety of its personnel, the DSWD-7 saw the urgent need to extend relief by going to those families who lost their homes, livelihood and loved ones, as well as those who relied only on evacuation centers for food and shelter.

In coordination with the Philippine Air Force, headed by Lt. Col. Honasan, a total of 1,863 food packs were delivered to the affected residents in the mountain barangays of Linantuyan, Hinakpan, Plagatasanon and Balwage---all in Guihulngan---since February 17 and over the weekend.

Of the 33 barangays in Guihulngan more than half was reached by the Local Social Welfare and Services Office, carrying relief goods consisting of food packs, water, tents, sleeping mats, cooking utensils and clothing.

The DSWD-7 now continues with its work of distributing relief goods, while starting to outline better strategies on setting up and managing evacuation centers, and getting ready to initiate debriefing to affected families. – (FREEMAN)