The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has mobilized a substantial P200 million emergency cash assistance package for families severely impacted by the recent 6.9-magnitude earthquake that struck Northern Cebu. This critical financial support forms part of the government's ongoing commitment to help residents recover from the devastating natural disaster.
Emergency Payout Details and Distribution
The emergency cash transfer (ECT) program payout occurred from November 12 to 14, 2025, with DSWD Region 7 personnel actively distributing funds directly to affected communities. The initial distribution took place in Medellin, Cebu on November 12, marking the beginning of this crucial relief operation.
According to DSWD officials, the cash assistance aims to provide immediate support for families to purchase essential items that are not typically included in regular relief packages. This includes food, hygiene products, medicine, clothing, and other urgent necessities that families require in the aftermath of the earthquake.
Covered Municipalities and Assistance Amounts
The emergency cash assistance program extends to multiple Local Government Units (LGUs) across Northern Cebu that have been officially recognized as affected areas. The comprehensive list of beneficiary municipalities includes: Bantayan, Borbon, Catmon, City of Bogo, Daanbantayan, Madridejos, Medellin, San Remigio, Santa Fe, Sogod, Tabogon, and Tabuelan.
The amount of financial aid provided to each family is determined by the extent of damage to their homes. Families with partially damaged houses receive P5,000, while those with completely destroyed homes qualify for P10,000 in assistance. This tiered approach ensures that the most severely affected families receive appropriate support.
Ongoing Monitoring and Additional Support
Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero emphasized that DSWD Field Office 7 continues to closely monitor the situation in Northern Cebu, particularly given the persistent aftershocks following the major earthquake. The agency remains committed to providing comprehensive assistance to affected families throughout the recovery process.
Lucero highlighted that over the past month, DSWD has delivered multiple forms of assistance beyond the cash transfer program. This includes family food packs, mobile kitchens, water tankers, tents, hygiene kits, family kits, and clothing kits. The emergency cash transfer represents an additional layer of support designed to complement these existing relief efforts.
The agency reported significant progress in the distribution, with 35,214 families already receiving assistance during the third batch of the ECT payout. This substantial number demonstrates the widespread impact of the earthquake and the government's determined response to address the needs of affected communities.
