The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1 (DSWD FO 1) – Ilocos Region’s Angels in Red Vests, visited Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) temporarily residing in evacuation centers in Bangar, La Union, due to rising waters caused by Severe Tropical Storm “Kristine.”

During the visit, Lizzly Medina, a registered social worker and municipal link for DSWD FO 1, engaged with families in the evacuation centers, providing comfort and support. Many IDPs expressed sadness about their situation but highlighted the importance of government visits, which serve as a reminder that they are not alone during this crisis.

“Nasayaat ti sitwasyon mi ditoy evacuation center; haan kami nga mabaybay-an, ket adda itited da nga makan, uray merienda gapo munisipyo. Dakel ti yamanek nga nakatungtong ko ni Ma’am Lizzly ta limmag-an ti riknak, ta napintas ti panang-asikaso na kadakami ditoy evacuation center. (Our situation at the evacuation center is quite good; we are well taken care of, meals are provided by the municipality, including snacks.I’m very grateful to Ma’am Lizzly for speaking with us; her kindness has made our time here so much more comfortable),” shared Mylene E. Moster, one of the IDPs from Paratong, Bangar, La Union during the visit.

The DSWD FO 1 team is committed to protecting IDPs in evacuation centers. As part of these efforts, they provided psychological first aid to alleviate stress, especially for children, helping them cope and recover after their experiences.

At the peak of Typhoon Kristine, LGUs set up 201 evacuation centers, with 40 still active in Region 1, assisting 1,018 families. LGU reports show that affected families have now risen to 100,846 across the region. In response, DSWD is working with LGUs to assess the situation and address ongoing needs.

As the vice-chair for response and early recovery, DSWD leads relief distribution, providing food and non-food items during disasters. It also oversees Camp Coordination, Camp Management, and IDP Protection. DSWD offers technical assistance to local governments to meet IDP needs effectively, aiming to create a safe, stable environment for all affected families. (by: Nicole Kasandra A. Lipawen, Information Officer II – Disaster Response Management Division)