Typhoon Survivors Forced to Share Relief Goods
More than 700 evacuees in Barangay Punta Engaño, Lapu-Lapu City found themselves in a difficult situation after surviving typhoon Tino in November 2025. The relief operation faced a major challenge when 551 food packs had to be distributed among 736 registered households, forcing residents to share what was meant for single families.
Residents Voice Their Struggle
Analiza Inso, a resident of Sitio Solas Kalipayan, described receiving only half a box of relief goods containing six kilos of rice, canned goods, coffee, milk and biscuits. Many evacuees in Punta Engaño felt the distribution fell short compared to those in nearby Barangay Basak.
Another resident, who requested anonymity, revealed that his family was excluded from DSWD assistance because they hadn't evacuated or completed the necessary forms. This highlights gaps in the system that left some vulnerable families without support.
Officials Respond to Crisis
Barangay Captain Crisanto Estardo confirmed the difficult decision to split the food packs, explaining they wanted to ensure every family received at least some relief. "We told the DSWD staff here that it would be better to just split the packs so that all the families on the list could receive something," Estardo stated.
CSWDO officer-in-charge Sheila Baylosis clarified that the number of food packs was based on preemptive evacuation lists, which may not have captured all families in need. She recommended the barangay use its disaster preparedness fund to supplement the distribution.
Investigation Underway
DSWD 7 Director Shalaine Marie Lucero emphasized that National Government aid should not be modified or divided. The office is now investigating the matter in coordination with local officials, including Barangay Captain Estardo and Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" Chan.
The inquiry will determine if policies under Republic Act 10121 were violated, which could potentially lead to criminal liability for local officials. Lucero stressed that any distribution of food packs or financial assistance is intended solely for the rightful recipients and their families.
