OWWA extends assistance to OFW families affected by 'Sendong'

The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration is helping the more than 3,000 overseas Filipino workers' families who have fallen victim of Tropical Storm Sendong that devastated Cagayan de Oro and Iligan Cities in Region 10. OWWA Administrator Carmelita Dimzon said the “Operation Tulong” to OFW-victims of Sendong has been initiated to assess the extent of damage suffered by OFW families in the areas badly hit by the storm.   “Our personnel have been mobilized to distribute bottled mineral water and cooked or ready-to-eat food to affected residents,” she said, adding that OWWA's efforts are done in coordination with other government agencies involved in relief and rehabilitation work. An initial estimate showed some 3,000 OFW families had been affected by Sendong, but the number is expected to grow. “We are thankful that, so far, there has been no reported OFW casualty,” Dimzon added. The agency is being assisted by OFW Family Circles in locating families of  migrant workers, particularly in the 34 barangays situated near the banks of Cagayan and Iponan Rivers where a large number of OFW families are reportedly residing. Meanwhile, Bureau of Customs Commissioner Ruffy Biazon said that all donations coming from abroad for the victims of Sendong will not be slapped with proper duties and taxes, provided the relief items have permit from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DWSD). Without the DSWD permit, the parcels will be charged according to the provisions of the law. “As provided by law, all imports are slapped with duties and tax," he said. The BoC chief said: “Meron akong nakausap na magdo-donate... I advised them to get certification from the DSWD... meron galing Canada that pledged water purifying tablets.” He said that certification from DSWD would deter smugglers from taking advantage of the situation. — LBG, GMA News