QUEZON CITY -- As part of its disaster response operations, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), with the help of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and concerned government agencies, is conducting Rapid Damage Assessment and Needs Analysis (RDANA) in areas affected by the Typhoon Odette. 

The conduct of RDANA is necessary to be able to determine the extent of damage and immediate response requirements that the government needs to aid the affected population.

Based on initial assessment, some of the problems that hinder the response operations are communication and internet connectivity issues, power outage, and transportation of goods. The DSWD, however, continues its close coordination with the local government units (LGUs) and other partner-agencies such as the Philippine Coast Guard, Philippine National Police, and Philippine Navy for effective monitoring and reporting of status of the affected families and prompt delivery of relief items to disaster areas. 

The Department, while still in the response period, is ensuring that minimum health and safety protocols are in place, particularly in the evacuation centers. The DSWD implements the Camp Coordination and Camp Management and Protection COVID-19 Operational Guidance in evacuation sites to regularly observe the health status of internally displaced persons and to monitor the entrance and exit points of evacuation camps. 

As of December 24, 6PM, more than 76,000 families or more than 304,000 persons are taking temporary shelter in more than 1,200 evacuation centers in Regions VI, VII, VIII, X, MIMAROPA, and CARAGA. 

Meanwhile, the DSWD assured the affected residents of continued provision of food packs and other non-food items.

As of the latest data, more than P 93.2 million worth of humanitarian assistance has been provided by DSWD, local government units (LGUs), and non-government organizations to the families heavily hit by the Typhoon.

Aside from the initial actions taken, the Department is simultaneously coordinating with its Field Offices for consolidation and preparation of appropriate documents for the recovery and rehabilitation phase for Odette-hit areas. (DSWD)