DSWD already preparing for storm outside PAR

Even though it is still conducting relief operations for families affected by Typhoon Tino’s onslaught, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is already preparing for the potential impact of the incoming tropical depression that is still outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility.

In a statement on Wednesday, DSWD Spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said they are monitoring the track and development of the tropical depression, which will be named “Uwan” by the state weather bureau once it enters the PAR during the weekend.

“We’re monitoring right now itong pagdating ng bagong bagyo. We are now closely working with the local government units to ensure and assure them na nakahanda po ang DSWD doon,” she said.

(We’re monitoring this oncoming storm right now. We are closely working with the local government units to ensure and assure them that the DSWD is ready for it.)

The DSWD currently maintains over P2.87 billion in standby funds and stockpiles of food and non-food items across its field offices nationwide.

In its 11 p.m. bulletin, the state weather bureau said the tropical depression maintained its strength while moving west northwestward. It is expected to enter the PAR by late Friday evening or Saturday morning.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration warned that the tropical depression may rapidly intensify into a typhoon on Friday and eventually become a super typhoon on Saturday.

It added that there is an increasing chance of landfall on Monday over nNorthern or Central Luzon, with the highest possible wind signal at Signal No. 5.

Meanwhile, the DSWD has delivered over P69.4 million in humanitarian and relief assistance to communities in the Visayas and Mindanao that were affected by Typhoon Tino’s onslaught.

Non-food items and ready-to-eat food (RTEF) boxes were also provided to families currently staying in evacuation centers. The RTEF boxes were distributed to typhoon victims in Region 5 (Bicol Region), Negros Island Region (NIR), and Region 8 (Eastern Visayas). — JMA, GMA Integrated News