Nearly P850 million in assistance was rolled out Nov. 21 under the Tabang Bikol-Tindog Oragon aid initiative for victims of typhoons Pepito and Kristine.
The House of Representatives, led by Speaker Martin Romualdez, launched this large-scale relief initiative, in cooperation with Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian, as per the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Under the aid initiative, nearly P850 million was allocated to provide critical aid to more than 170,000 typhoon victims across the Bicol Region for their immediate needs, including financial support, home repairs, and livelihood restoration.
“This united effort is a testament to the resilience and bayanihan spirit of the Filipino people,” Romualdez said in a press release.
“As we rebuild lives and communities, let us continue to work hand-in-hand for a stronger and more prepared nation. Rest assured, your government remains steadfast in providing support and hope during these trying times,” he added.
A convoy of 24 trucks carrying food, hygiene kits, clothing, and other essential items gathered from a nationwide donation drive left the House of Representatives Nov. 18 to deliver critical assistance to the affected communities in the region.
The relief effort includes three major activities: financial assistance payouts, a mini-Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF), and the distribution of relief goods.
The first leg of the Tabang Bikol-Tindog Oragon kicked off Thursday morning at Plaza Rizal in Virac, Catanduanes, bringing P100 million in cash assistance for an estimated 20,000 beneficiaries in the province.
Included in the aid package for the people of Catanduanes were 10,000 packs of relief goods and 140,000 kgs. of rice, as well as housing materials for 950 families.
Allocated for Albay under the initiative was a total of P255 million in cash assistance for an estimated 53,000 beneficiaries.
Included in the assistance package for Albay typhoon victims were 180,00 kgs. of rice and shelter assistance payout for 356 families, amounting to P6.6 million.
The relief operations for Camarines Sur included a total of P125 million in cash assistance earmarked for over 25,000 beneficiaries, as well as 75,000 kgs. of rice and housing materials distributed to 50 families.
The last leg of the aid caravan benefited around 34,000 individuals, who received a total of P164 million in cash assistance and 132,000 kgs. of rice.
“This initiative is not just about providing relief goods or financial support; it is about showing solidarity and compassion. We are here to assure every affected family that they are not alone in this journey toward recovery,” Romualdez said.
“I thank our local government units, partner organizations, and volunteers for their dedication and hard work. Together, we will rebuild stronger and more resilient communities,” he added.
Donations gathered for the aid drive include hundreds of sacks of rice and canned goods contributed by various groups, such as Tingog Party-list, Philreca, the National Irrigation Administration, and private donors.
Romualdez emphasized the importance of combining financial aid with services that foster long-term aid to the people.
The relief initiative also highlighted the Speaker’s personal dedication to disaster relief, with his experience in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda in 2013. ||
