DSWD and PAF Deliver Critical Aid to Batanes Following Tsunami Alert
In the wake of the tsunami warning triggered by the recent earthquake in Taiwan, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in collaboration with the Philippine Air Force (PAF), has mobilized a large-scale relief operation to support the residents of Batanes. Approximately 7,000 family food packs (FFPs) are being airlifted to the province as part of the government’s commitment to ensure the well-being of those potentially affected by natural disasters.
Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao of the Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) confirmed that the initial batch of 600 FFPs was transported to Batanes on April 5 via a PAF C-130 aircraft from Laoag City, Ilocos Norte. “These food packs represent our proactive stance in supporting Batanes, which is among the provinces on alert for potential tsunami waves,” she stated, echoing Secretary Rex Gatchalian’s directive to have relief supplies ready for any emergency.
An additional 1,200 FFPs are scheduled for delivery today, April 6, from Villamor Airbase. Half of these will be dispatched directly to Batanes, while the remainder will be temporarily stored at Laoag City Airport. The swift response has been made possible thanks to the cooperation between the DSWD and the Defense Department, led by Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, who facilitated the prompt transportation of the aid packages.
The remaining 5,200 FFPs designated for Batanes will be supplied by the DSWD Field Office-1 in the Ilocos Region. Assistant Secretary Dumlao highlighted the ongoing coordination between the DSWD’s regional offices, the Offices of Civil Defense (OCD), and the PAF to ensure the efficient delivery of the family food packs to the local governments in need.
This concerted effort underscores the Philippine government’s dedication to disaster preparedness and its swift action to safeguard communities against the aftermath of natural calamities.