DSWD Provides Food Assistance to Piston Members Affected by Storms
MANILA, Philippines — Over 200 members of the transport group Pagkakaisa ng mga Samahan ng Tsuper at Opereytor Nationwide (Piston) who were impacted by the southwest monsoon and recent tropical cyclones have received food assistance from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). This food assistance aims to ease the hardship caused by the severe weather conditions.
The DSWD confirmed that a total of 237 Piston members affected by these weather disturbances have already been provided aid. The department continues to extend support to other vulnerable sectors as well.
Expanding Aid Beyond Transport Groups
Aside from Piston members, the agency is also reaching out to farmers and drivers from other transport groups who suffered due to the successive storms. This broader assistance reflects DSWD’s commitment to help all affected communities recover quickly.
“Our approach normally is with the local government units; now we are looking at other sectors that have been affected by the successive tropical cyclones,” DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian said in Filipino, according to local sources. He emphasized the department’s effort to widen its support network during these challenging times.
Food Pack Distribution and Financial Aid Plans
Secretary Gatchalian added that the distribution of food packs is expected to be completed by the weekend. The DSWD is working closely with local government units to ensure efficient delivery of aid to those in need.
Regarding financial assistance, Gatchalian said the department will soon begin processing emergency cash transfers. These funds will be distributed in coordination with affected local government units to guarantee proper validation and fair distribution.
“I want to clarify that the financial assistance, which is an emergency cash transfer, will go through the local government unit first. We will rely on the validation of the local government unit while we are distributing the food packs at a sectoral level,” he explained.
He further noted, “For financial assistance, we normally go through that in coordination with the local government unit, because their social welfare offices make the list.” This partnership ensures that aid reaches the rightful beneficiaries promptly and transparently.
For more news and updates on DSWD assistance efforts, visit Filipinokami.com.
