Relief efforts for families impacted by Typhoon Kristine (Trami) in Western Visayas have exceeded PHP8.4 million in assistance, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reported on October 27, 2024. Typhoon Kristine caused extensive damage across the region, affecting thousands of individuals and leaving many in urgent need of food, shelter, and basic necessities.
According to DSWD’s report, PHP7.17 million of the relief aid included family food packs and non-food essentials, while local government units (LGUs) contributed an additional PHP1.24 million. The DSWD has worked closely with local officials to ensure the swift delivery of aid, providing 7,877 food packs and 282 non-food items. Regional Director Arwin Razo assured the public of the DSWD’s commitment to meet the ongoing needs of the affected families.
Distribution and Impact of Relief Assistance
The DSWD distributed resources to 62 LGUs across Aklan, Antique, Capiz, Guimaras, Iloilo, and Negros Occidental. In total, 38,659 families, or approximately 161,283 individuals, were affected by the typhoon, with 1,446 houses reported damaged, including 124 that were completely destroyed. Nearly 1,319 families sought refuge in 98 evacuation centers, while 951 families stayed with friends or relatives.
DSWD Regional Director Razo emphasized that coordination with LGUs remains a priority to ensure efficient delivery of relief. He further assured that DSWD has adequate resources, including PHP144.19 million in emergency funds, over 108,000 food packs, and a significant inventory of non-food essentials.
Continued Support from International Partners
In addition to the national relief efforts, international aid has bolstered assistance to typhoon-stricken areas. Singapore and Malaysia recently deployed air support to aid delivery, with cargo planes and helicopters arriving to support Philippine Air Force operations. Australia’s “Bluey” emergency food truck also arrived to supply hot meals in remote communities.
Other foreign partners, including China, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID), and the Vatican, have also committed resources and financial assistance, underscoring global solidarity in response to the crisis. Pope Francis expressed sympathy for the people of the Philippines, calling for prayers and support during his weekly address.
Local Governments and Volunteers Intensify Relief Operations
Local governments and volunteers across affected regions have stepped up, helping distribute essential items such as food, water, and clothing. In Batangas, Laurel Mayor Lyndon Bruce led distribution efforts for families affected by collapsed bridges and landslides, with support from private organizations and local volunteers. Youth groups in Albay, including the Youth Ambassadors of Albay Province, organized independent relief missions, delivering medical supplies and essentials to isolated communities.
Youth leader Christine Larce urged for a more structured government response, highlighting the need for improved flood control and disaster mitigation projects in Bicol. As the country mobilizes additional resources, communities continue to band together, embodying resilience and unity in the face of adversity.
DSWD and LGUs Push for Continued Recovery
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has directed relevant agencies to sustain relief operations and remain prepared as another storm is anticipated. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian shared that over 150,000 family food packs and additional relief materials have been distributed, with the department prepared for continuous aid flow.
The DSWD and local authorities emphasize that as recovery for the Kristine-hit victims continues, addressing the immediate needs of those displaced and the long-term rebuilding of affected communities remains paramount. Through unified efforts from government, international allies, and local volunteers, Typhoon Kristine victims are receiving critical assistance to help rebuild their lives.