The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in Ilocos Norte has prepositioned thousands of food packs in strategic locations amid the possible effects of Typhoon “Bising.”
Organized in seven clusters, a total of 4,141 family food packs are ready for distribution from the Ernesto G. Go Mega Complex, Banna Cultural Center, Takuat warehouse in San Nicolas, Pasuquin auditorium, Solsona Civic Center, Pagudpud People’s Center, and the Pancian District Hospital in Pagudpud.
Acting PSWDO officer Rochelle Gajes told the Philippine News Agency on Monday that “non-food items are also in place for those who may need them most.”
In addition, a total of 25,800 family food packs and 4,100 non-food items composed of hygiene kits, sleeping kits, family kits, kitchen kits and laminated sacks are available at the DSWD Laoag satellite warehouse and are now being prepositioned in the towns of Adams, Pagudpud, Burgos, Dingras, Batac, and Badoc.
There is also an expected additional 5,000 family food packs from the DSWD Central Office to be delivered any time this week, Gajes said.
Due to its geographical location, Ilocos Norte is vulnerable to almost all types of natural hazards.
In its geo-hazard map, the municipalities of Solsona and Dingras have been identified as high-risk areas for soil erosion, flooding, and drought, particularly in Barangays Puttao, Sta. Ana, and Nagpatpatan in Solsona, and Barangays Francisco, San Marcelino, and Barong in Dingras.
Areas in the mountainous areas of Pagudpud and Adams in the first district of Ilocos Norte are also prone to severe landslides. During bad weather, these areas are often isolated for days.
Gajes said the prepositioning of food packs is meant to mitigate shortages and ensure that residents have access to essential supplies during emergencies.
“The prepositioned food and non-food packs will ensure quick response to affected families,” she said.
Based on weather bureau PAGASA’s latest rainfall outlook, Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur will see 50 to 100 millimeters of rain until Tuesday noon due to the southwest monsoon. (PNA)
