(Contributed photos)
MANILA, (PIA) -- The local government of Malabon swiftly mobilized relief efforts for 13 families impacted by a devastating New Year's Eve fire in Barangay Panghulo.
Led by Mayor Jeannie Sandoval, officials, and representatives from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) distributed essential supplies and financial assistance today, offering immediate support to the 50 displaced individuals.
The relief packages provided a comprehensive range of resources to meet the families' immediate needs. These include food packs that were supplied by both the DSWD and Malabon LGU that included 5 kilos of rice, canned goods, and coffee.
Also given were non-food items such as sleeping kits from the DSWD and Malabon LGU that contained mosquito nets, blankets, pillows, and "malongs" or traditional garments; hygiene kits containing soap, slippers, mats, blankets, and underwear; kitchenware sets that contain pots, pans, stainless cups, ladles, plastic plates, and utensils.
water containers that include Jerry cans to ensure readily available access to clean water; and P5,000 cash assistance for each family to support their additional needs.
Mayor Sandoval acknowledged the possibility of including shelter toolkits in future distributions, but emphasized the priority of providing immediate resources for residents to purchase and address their specific needs.
The city's response was swift and thorough, with hot meals, medicines, medical attention, and collapsible containers distributed within hours of the fire. Former Congressman and Philippine Red Cross-Malabon City Chapter chairperson Ricky Sandoval also joined the relief efforts, demonstrating a united front in supporting the affected families.
Residents, meanwhile, expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Sandoval, the DSWD, and the Malabon LGU for their prompt and comprehensive assistance. While rebuilding their lives will take time, the community's solidarity and the city's unwavering commitment to their recovery offer a beacon of hope in the face of tragedy. (PIA-NCR)
