Central Visayas Sends Relief Goods to Storm-Hit Areas in Region 5

Several government agencies in Region 7 sent various relief goods to areas in Region 5 that were badly hit by Typhoon Nina.

Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) sent a total 2,600 food packs, while the Department of Health (DOH-7) sent 66 boxes of assorted medicines, 29 gallons and 50 pails.

The relief goods were transported via a C130 of the Philippine Air Force to Virac, Catanduanes. Office of Civil Defense Assistant Regional Director Engr. Verniel Balaba said the operation started yesterday afternoon with C130 flying to Virac Catanduanes carrying 1,500 food packs. The second batch was sent early this morning.

Balaba said the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (RDRRMC -7) – Disaster Response Emergency Operation Center was immediately established at the Mactan Airbase as the logistics hub for Typhoon Nina. He said that since yesterday, the relief goods were already prepared waiting for the go signal to be transported to Virac, Catanduanes.

“Yesterday afternoon the goods were already in the hands of DSWD -5 and we assumed that immediately upon receiving the distribution of goods to affected areas started,” Balaba said.

Personnel from the Armed Forces of the Philippines, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG-7), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP-7), and Philippine National Police (PNP) served as porter of goods, while personnel from the National Telecommunications (NTC-7) and volunteers from the Federation of Volunteers Radio and Communication (FVRC) supported in the communication process.

DSWD-7 targeted 10,000 food packs for sending to typhoon-stricken areas. Balaba added that the RDRRMC/OCD-7 is on standby should manpower for Response Team and assessors will be needed. (rmn/ays/PIA-7)