In response to the needs of fishermen and fish vendors affected by the rainy season and Balikatan Exercises  in Pasuquin and Burgos, Ilocos Norte, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1 (DSWD FO 1) has joined forces with the Philippine Marines to conduct a Food-for-Training (FFT) focusing on Family and Community Disaster Preparedness.

The said exercise has inadvertently impacted local fishermen and fish vendors in the coastal areas of Pasuquin and Burgos in the province of Ilocos Norte.

Recognizing this challenge, the collaboration to provide essential food supplies to these communities through the FFT will benefit a total of 929 families to the four (4) coastal barangays in Pasuquin and six (6) coastal barangays in Burgos amounting to PhP633,234.27.

Through this partnership, DSWD ensures that those affected by the exercise receive adequate nourishment, alleviating some of the hardships they face due to the temporary disruptions caused by the rainy season and balikatan exercises.

The distribution of Family Food Packs will be conducted in coordination with local authorities and community leaders to ensure efficient and equitable delivery to the affected households. DSWD FO 1 and the Philippine Marines remain steadfast in their commitment to providing support and relief to the communities impacted by the Balikatan Exercise. By: Nicole Kasandra A. Lipawen, Information Officer II – Disaster Response Management Division