DSWD to aid families affected by El Niño

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has prepared stocks of food and non-food resources for distribution to families and communities to be affected by El Niño.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said that while LGUs are the first responders to any disaster and calamities within their area, the agency is willing to do its part and be ready for any weather disturbances that may occur during the dry season.

“The important fact here is, bagama't handa kami, kailangang mag-coordinate pa rin kami sa LGUs," Gatchalian said.

State weather bureau PAGASA on Tuesday declared the start of the El Niño phenomenon in the Tropical Pacific and its effects are now expected in the Philippines.

PAGASA also said the current El Niño is "weak" but shows signs of strengthening in the coming months.

The potential effects of El Niño will be slowly evident starting October, it added. —Jiselle Casucian/LDF, GMA Integrated News