CEBU CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Central Visayas (DSWD-7) has distributed 11,888 family food packs and 5,990 non-food items to families displaced following the December 9, 2024 eruption of Mt. Kanlaon.
Shalaine Marie Lucero, DSWD-7 regional director, said Friday that the assistance provided as of January 1 was valued at PHP18.1 million.
The distribution began immediately after the eruption, with families living within the six-kilometer danger zone evacuated by the Canlaon City local government unit.
Currently, 1,805 families are sheltered in 10 evacuation centers established by the local government, while 646 others are staying with relatives or friends and are regularly monitored.
The non-food items distributed include family and sleeping kits, hygiene kits, and family tents. Additionally, 3,250 displaced families have received cash assistance ranging from PHP2,000 to PHP3,000.
Tonyson Luther Lee, vice chairperson of the Quick Response Team, lauded staff and volunteers for coming together in “challenging times.” (PNA)