Flood Victims Outside Evac Centers to Also Get Aid

About 4,000 families who opted to seek shelter at their relatives’ homes during the July 11 flooding will also receive government relief packages.

The Bacolod City Communications Office, in a press statement said that the city government, in collaboration with the Department of Social Welfare and Development – Negros Island Region (DSWD-NIR), expanded its relief operations to assist families impacted by the flooding, including those who sought refuge with relatives instead of evacuation centers.

The total number of affected families has risen to 4,419 (20,719 individuals) across 15 barangays. Relief operations resumed on July 15 led by DSWD-Bacolod head Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga, Executive Assistant Ayesha Joy Villaflor, and DSWD Project Development Officer II Ryan Cezar. The team distributed 813 relief packs to residents of Barangays 1, 2, 3, and 8, bringing the total aid distributed since July 15 to 3,940 packs, it said.

“We must also consider those who stayed with relatives. It is both our duty and moral responsibility to extend assistance to all in need,” the BCCO quoted Verdeprado-Mangga.

Affected barangays include Bata, Banago, Villamonte, 10, 17, 18, 6, 12, Singcang-Airport, Mandalagan and Alijis.

Resident Orlando Abenir of Purok Lubi, Brgy. 3 recounted floodwaters reaching four feet high, stating, “We’re thankful for the assistance.” Barangay 3 Punong Barangay Bob Asan also thanked Mayor Greg Gasataya and DSWD for their swift response, the BCCO added.

Relief distribution will continue until July 18, it said.*