Pic MindaNews
KOTA KINABALU – At least 1,270 families in three regions of Surigao del Sur (Philippines) affected by floods from Tropical Storm Basyang received aid from the Office of the Vice President (OVP) recently.
MindaNews reported that Vice President Sara Duterte took the lead in distributing assistance, which included food and non-food items, in the municipalities of Lanuza and Cortes, as well as in Tandag City, where families were displaced due to heavy rains and flooding.
The OVP stated that 215 families in Barangay Nurcia, Lanuza received help.
In Cortes, about 1,000 families were provided with non-food items like blankets and mats during a distribution event at the municipal gymnasium. In Barangay Maitom, Tandag City, 55 families each received 25 kilograms of rice along with non-food supplies.
“Our office may be small, but the staff of the OVP works hard to ensure we can assist disaster victims through our Disaster Operations Center,” Duterte remarked.
She encouraged the public to stay alert during typhoons and heavy rains, reminding communities to heed safety advisories since the Philippines is situated in the typhoon belt.
“I am grateful to VP Sara for visiting our small town and witnessing the situation firsthand despite her busy schedule. This is the first time a national official has come to see us,” said Cortes Mayor Frederick P. Yu.
Yu mentioned that recovery and restoration efforts are in progress, including plans to move residents from flood-prone areas to a government property on higher ground known as the “Lot for the Lotless.” He noted that priority will be given to 41 families whose homes were completely destroyed.
Residents expressed their gratitude as well. Evelyn Isiang mentioned that the relief supplies would aid her family in recovering from the flooding.
“We are thankful that the Vice President personally checked on us. The relief goods will assist our family as we recover from the flooding. This is the first time a national official visited our town, and we feel supported,” she stated, adding it made her feel hopeful.
At least 1,270 families in three areas of Surigao del Sur (Philippines) hit by floods during Tropical Storm Basyang received relief assistance from the Office of the Vice President (OVP) on Tuesday.
MindaNews reported that Vice President Sara Duterte personally led the distribution of aid consisting of food and non-food items in the municipalities of Lanuza and Cortes, as well as in Tandag City, where families were displaced by heavy rains and flooding.
According to the OVP, 215 families received assistance in Barangay Nurcia, Lanuza.
In Cortes, around 1,000 families were given non-food items such as blankets and mats during a distribution held at the municipal gymnasium. In Barangay Maitom, Tandag City, 55 families each received 25 kilograms of rice along with non-food items.
“Our office may be small, but the staff of the OVP ensures that we are able to deliver help to victims of calamities through our Disaster Operations Center,” Duterte said.
She urged the public to remain vigilant during typhoons and heavy rainfall, reminding communities to follow safety advisories as the Philippines lies along the typhoon belt.
“I am thankful to VP Sara for coming to our little town and seeing the situation firsthand despite her busy schedule. This is the first time a national official has visited us,” Cortes Mayor Frederick P. Yu said.
Yu added that recovery and restoration efforts are ongoing, including plans to relocate residents from flood-prone areas to a government property on higher grounds known as the “Lot for the Lotless.” He said priority will be given to 41 families whose homes were totally damaged.
Residents also conveyed their appreciation.
Evelyn Isiang said the relief goods would help her family recover from the flooding.
“We are thankful that the Vice President personally checked on us. The relief goods will help our family as we recover from the flooding. This is the first time a national official visited our town, and we feel supported,” she said, adding it made her really happy.
