The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has distributed a total of P40.265 million in cash assistance to families affected by the magnitude 7.8 earthquake in Mindanao.
According to the DSWD, the financial aid was provided under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program as part of the government's ongoing response to residents and families affected by the strong earthquake.
DSWD Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the agency continues to deliver assistance, particularly in General Santos City and other areas in the SOCCSKSARGEN region.
The official also assured that families who underwent the necessary assessment and validation received appropriate aid to address their immediate needs as they begin to recover from the earthquake's impact.
In addition to cash aid, the DSWD has also distributed family food packs, non-food items, and ready-to-eat food boxes to affected residents.
Dumlao emphasized that the agency remains on standby following the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to ensure that no family affected by the disaster is left without assistance.
The DSWD clarified that all services and aid distributed to affected residents were carried out in accordance with existing disaster response protocols and guidelines to ensure orderly and fair distribution of assistance.
