DSWD and Albay LGUs Collaborate on Relocating Mayon Evacuees to New Tent City
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in close coordination with local government units (LGUs) in Albay, is actively continuing its efforts to relocate residents displaced by the ongoing activity of Mayon Volcano. This initiative aims to enhance the safety and well-being of those forced to evacuate their homes due to the volcanic unrest.
Successful Transfer to Tent City Ensures Safety
According to DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, the DSWD Field Office 5, alongside the LGU of Malilipot, Albay, has successfully moved internally displaced persons (IDPs) from two public schools to a newly constructed Tent City. This relocation involved setting up a total of 131 tents to serve as temporary shelters for more than 100 families who were previously housed at San Jose Elementary School and San Jose National High School.
The move aligns with the existing protocol of the Department of Education (DepEd), which imposes a 15-day limit on using public schools as evacuation centers or temporary shelters for affected residents. This measure helps ensure that educational facilities can resume normal operations while providing adequate care for evacuees.
Ongoing Support and Assistance for Affected Communities
Assistant Secretary Dumlao emphasized that the DSWD remains committed to supporting the affected areas and communities. This includes the continuous provision of family food packs or food packages to families in need, ensuring they have access to essential supplies during this challenging time.
The collaboration between the DSWD and Albay LGUs highlights a proactive approach to disaster response, focusing on:
- Timely relocation to safer, designated shelters like the Tent City.
- Adherence to established protocols to balance evacuation needs with educational continuity.
- Sustained humanitarian aid, including food and other necessities for displaced families.
This ongoing effort underscores the importance of inter-agency cooperation in managing natural disasters and safeguarding vulnerable populations in the Philippines.
