MANILA — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Wednesday placed its disaster response teams on heightened alert as a low-pressure area (LPA) monitored outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility is forecast to develop into a tropical depression within the next 24 hours.
DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the agency has activated preparedness measures to ensure immediate assistance is available for communities that could be affected once the weather disturbance moves closer to the country.
She said the department is working closely with regional offices, local government units, and partner agencies to strengthen coordination and facilitate rapid disaster response if necessary.
To support possible relief operations, the DSWD has strategically prepositioned more than 4.4 million family food packs, along with essential non-food supplies, in various locations across the Philippines.
The agency also has more than PHP2.47 billion in standby funds available through its central and field offices to finance emergency response and humanitarian assistance.
Dumlao urged the public to closely monitor weather advisories and instructions issued by PAGASA, local governments, and disaster management agencies. She also advised residents in vulnerable areas to identify their nearest evacuation centers ahead of any potential emergency.
The DSWD said it remains ready to deliver food assistance, relief supplies, psychosocial services, and other forms of humanitarian support to families affected by severe weather conditions.
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