In partnership with the Philippine Army, Philippine Navy, and Philippine National Police, 4,000 family food packs (FFPs) were delivered to requesting Local Government Units (LGUs) affected by Typhoon Lando.

DSWD Director Marcelo Nicomedes J. Castillo, OCD Director Melchito Castro and uniformed officials strategized the hauling and transporting of FFPs to severely affected areas in a meeting held today.

At least 1,000 FFPs each were given to LGUs of Bani and Mabini, Pangasinan. Likewise, San Quintin (500 FFPs), Balungao (300 FFPs), and Rosales (500 FFPs) in the 6^th District of Pangasinan were also provided with FFPs.

While rescue operations were done by partner-agencies, DSWD Quick Action Response Team (QuART) conducted Rapid Disaster Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) in the evacuation centers and escorted FFPs.

Since there are still power interruptions in Pangasinan, some expected disaster reports are yet to be transmitted to DSWD.

DSWD’s close coordination with the Office of Civil Defense in responding to the needs of typhoon victims as well as Provincial/City/Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils helped the region create validated and complete disaster reports.

“While the LGUs are the first responders, DSWD ensures enough augmentation relief and rehabilitation support,” Director Castillo said. Disaster reports and requests are submitted prior to release of FFPs.

As of 2 PM of 19 October 2015, DSWD FO 1 monitored  disaster reports reflecting 2,726 families or 12,008 individuals affected from 100 barangays in Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan. There are also 27 evacuation centers holding 825 families or 3,268 individuals in the said provinces. (by: Iryn D. Cubangbang, Information Officer II)