QUEZON CITY -- A massive relief effort is in full swing as government continues to provide various necessities and assistance to the Northern Mindanao communities flooded by the intense rains caused by the shearline.

National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Chairperson and Department of National Defense Officer in Charge, Sr Usec Jose Faustino Jr., and NDRMC Executive Director Usec Raymundo Ferrer, conducted an aerial inspection of the flooded areas today, December 28, 2022, to see firsthand the extent of the floodings in Misamis Occidental and met Misamis Occidental Governor Henry Oaminal and other local officials to discuss further actions needed to help the affected communities.

“The President is closely monitoring the situation in Misamis Occidental and other affected areas and has instructed the NDRRMC to continue providing all needed assistance. The NDRRMC is working with all relevant agencies to ensure that timely and appropriate support is given to the displaced families.” Sr Usec Jose Faustino explained.

To date, PHP 16 million worth of family food packs, food stuffs, bottled water, shelter kits, hygiene kits, blankets and financial assistance have been provided to the affected families in Bicol, the Visayas provinces, Zamboanga Peninsula, Northern Mindanao and the Bangsamoro, through the combined efforts of the Department of Social Welfare and Development, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

The Department of Information and Communications Technology and OCD also deployed their emergency telecommunications teams bearing VSAT equipment to ensure uninterrupted communications between local, regional, and national disaster managers. OCD Region 10 has also deployed Search and Rescue teams to assist local government responders.

“We thank and commend Misamis Occidental Governor Henry Oaminal, our counterparts in the local government units, the Department of Interior and Local Government, the DSWD, the AFP, the PNP and other national government agencies for their timely preparation and quick response actions to ensure the safety and wellbeing of our countrymen in all the affected areas. Ipagpatuloy natin ang pagtutulungan at mahalin natin ang ating bayan,” Sr Usec Faustino added. More supplies, equipment, and assistance are set to be provided after discussions with local officials about the situation of the affected population.

“We will continue to provide food, water, and other items to help the displaced families staying in the evacuation centers and in other affected areas. This will not stop until the situation improves and they are able to return to their homes.” Usec Raymundo Ferrer assured.

More than 100,000 families from various regions had been affected by the intense rains and floods caused by the shearline starting mid-December. The NDRRMC is on BLUE Alert as response and coordination activities continue. (NDRRMC)