By Sam Ramos
The Department of Social Welfare and Development Region 13 (DSWD-13) has swiftly extended assistance to 112 Caraga State University students who lost their accommodations in a fire that erupted in Barangay Ampayon early Tuesday morning, November 19, 2024.
The fire, which started at approximately 3 a.m., razed several residential buildings, including boarding houses where the students were staying. Seventeen families were also affected by the blaze.
In coordination with the City Social Welfare and Development Office, DSWD-13 immediately distributed relief goods to the displaced individuals. A total of 645 family food packs were provided, with each affected student and family receiving five packs. Additional support included hygiene kits, kitchen kits, sleeping kits, and family kits. The agency also delivered 20 modular tents to serve as temporary shelters for the displaced students.
DSWD-13 emphasized its commitment to ongoing relief efforts in collaboration with local authorities. “We are closely coordinating with the local government to ensure that all affected individuals receive adequate assistance,” the agency said in a statement. It added that monitoring of the situation is ongoing and further aid will be provided as necessary.
Butuan City, known as the educational hub of the Caraga region, is home to thousands of students who rely on boarding houses and dormitories. Fires in densely populated residential areas are a recurring issue, often exacerbated by substandard electrical systems and overcrowding. The DSWD, in partnership with local governments, has been implementing disaster response programs to address the unique vulnerabilities of students and transient populations during such incidents.
Efforts to provide both immediate and long-term solutions continue, with the DSWD affirming its dedication to supporting affected communities in rebuilding their lives.