Ilocos norte: Help from the government continues to reach Ilocos Norte residents affected by the recent cyclones that hit the region, including Super Typhoon Nando in September. On Wednesday, a total of 2,909 food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) containing rice, canned goods, instant coffee, and cereal drinks were distributed to affected families in San Nicolas, Batac City, Paoay, Pinili, Dingras, Marcos, and Nueva Era. Livestock raisers with reported animal fatalities were likewise given various agricultural inputs and veterinary assistance by the provincial government.
According to Philippines News Agency, Ilocos Norte is under a state of calamity due to Nando. Since Tuesday, Ilocos Norte Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos and her team have been visiting communities to distribute government assistance to affected families, farmers, and livestock raisers. “Through these efforts, we ensure that every Ilocano receives care and support. We continue to stand by the community, providing essential services and assistance, helping families recover in times of need, strengthening our communities, and giving every Ilocano the opportunity to rebuild and thrive,” she said in a short speech in Dingras.
Relief operations have already been conducted in the northern municipalities of Vintar, Bacarra, Bangui, and Pagudpud, with 2,091 total recipients. To aid residents whose homes were damaged, the Ilocos Norte government, in partnership with the DSWD, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, recently turned over PHP1.98 million worth of emergency shelter assistance to 340 families. “My family is thankful for the financial aid and the construction materials to help us rebuild our home,” Joan Santos, a resident of Barangay Ricarte in Batac City, said.