Masbate: The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development in Bicol (DHSUD-5) has announced plans to distribute more than PHP17 million in shelter assistance to families affected by Severe Tropical Storm Opong, known internationally as Bualoi, in Masbate. The aid package aims to support those whose homes were damaged by the storm.
According to Philippines News Agency, Marie Amoroso, the director of DHSUD-5, revealed on Monday that the assistance will include 5,000 shelter-grade tarpaulins and 700 shelter kits. “We’ll be sending 5,000 shelter-grade tarps and 700 shelter kits, worth a total of almost PHP17 million,” Amoroso stated.
The initial focus will be on households with partially damaged homes, as these tarpaulins and repair kits can be used to cover and mend existing structures. “We’ll prioritize partially damaged homes for shelter-grade tarps, as they can still be covered,” Amoroso emphasized.
In addition to the repair kits, the department plans to offer cash assistance through the Integrated Disaster Shelter Assistance Program. Families with fully destroyed houses will receive PHP30,000 per household, while those with partially damaged homes will receive PHP10,000.
As per data from the Office of Civil Defense in Bicol, as of 1:30 p.m., there are 4,616 houses reported as partially damaged and 1,070 as completely destroyed in the region.