India Extends Humanitarian Support to Philippines for Typhoon Recovery Efforts
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), serving as the Vice-Chair for Disaster Response of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), has formally accepted a significant donation of non-food humanitarian assistance from the People and Government of India. This aid is designated for families impacted by the devastating Typhoons "Tino" and "Uwan", which struck the Philippines in November 2025, causing widespread destruction in areas like Pandan, Catanduanes.
Ceremony at Clark Airbase Marks Donation Handover
In a ceremony held on Tuesday at Clark Airbase in Pampanga, Ambassador of India to the Philippines, His Excellency Shri Harsh Kumar Jain, presented the donated goods to Undersecretary Diana Rose Cajipe of the DSWD's Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG). Cajipe expressed profound gratitude on behalf of the Philippine Government, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, and other involved agencies, emphasizing the importance of this international support in aiding affected Filipinos, particularly in Central Luzon.
Comprehensive Aid Package Details
The donated items encompass a wide range of essential supplies aimed at providing immediate relief and comfort to disaster victims. The assistance includes:
- 500 pieces each of sleeping mats, mosquito nets, and blankets
- 750 sleeping bags
- 1,550 dignity kits for males
- 1,350 dignity kits for female children, including 50 specifically for women
- 1,000 solar lamps
These resources are slated for distribution to disaster-affected families in Dilasag, Aurora, where recovery efforts are ongoing.
Medical and Shelter Support Enhance Recovery
In addition to the non-food items, the donation features critical medical and shelter components. The Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita & Maitri (BHISHM) Cube, containing various FDA-approved medical equipment and medicines, was donated to the Department of Health (DOH). Ambassador Kumar Jain highlighted that the Indian government will provide trainers to ensure Filipino healthcare professionals are fully equipped to operate this unit, with training options including in-person sessions in the Philippines, visits to New Delhi, or videoconferencing.
Furthermore, the Department of Human Settlement and Urban Development (DHSUD) received 150 tarpaulins and 100 sets of tents to support the rehabilitation of damaged houses, addressing long-term shelter needs for affected families.
Ongoing Relief and Assurance of Effective Distribution
To date, the DSWD continues its relentless efforts to provide relief assistance to families impacted by Typhoons Uwan and Tino, with a focus on recovery in Aurora province. Cajipe underscored that these donations will significantly aid in helping countrymen find comfort and eventually lead normal lives. She also gave assurance that the DSWD will meticulously ensure all assistance from India reaches the intended beneficiaries, reinforcing the commitment to transparent and effective disaster response.
