DSWD Unveils P2 Billion Emergency Aid for Communities Affected by Mt. Kanlaon Eruption

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has announced a substantial emergency aid package amounting to P2 billion for communities grappling with the devastating effects of the recent eruption of Mt. Kanlaon. This financial assistance is aimed at providing immediate relief to the thousands of residents who have been forcibly displaced due to the natural disaster. As reported, over 42,000 individuals have been affected, with many seeking refuge in evacuation centers scattered across the regions of Western and Central Visayas. The eruption has had a profound impact on more than 10,000 families, disrupting lives and leaving many without homes. DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao emphasized the urgent need for coordinated efforts, stating that the agency is working closely with local government units to guarantee the swift delivery of aid and to ensure the safety of displaced families. A significant focus of DSWD’s efforts is the management of evacuation centers, where the agency aims to create safe spaces particularly for women and children. The importance of providing not just physical shelter, but also psychological and emotional support during such crises cannot be overstated. Dumlao affirmed the department's commitment to prioritizing the well-being of vulnerable populations in these challenging circumstances. The P2 billion allocation includes P92.2 million in standby funds readily available at DSWD’s central and field offices, while P1.1 billion is earmarked for family food packs, and P891 million is designated for other essential food and non-food items. In the immediate aftermath of the eruption, the DSWD and its partners have already distributed over P14.7 million worth of humanitarian aid, aimed at addressing the most pressing needs of those affected. In addition to immediate humanitarian relief, the DSWD is undertaking a rapid damage assessment to better understand the full scope of the disaster's impact. This assessment will serve as a foundation for determining further interventions, particularly for those in the agricultural sector who may have lost their livelihoods. Dumlao noted that once the data is compiled, the DSWD will explore options such as cash-for-work programs and emergency cash transfers to assist individuals facing crisis situations. As the affected communities navigate the aftermath of the eruption, the DSWD’s comprehensive approach aims not only to address immediate needs but also to lay the groundwork for long-term recovery and support. The full extent of the assistance will depend on ongoing assessments and the evolving situation, but the commitment to help those in need remains unwavering.