DSWD repositions relief aid in preparation for Mayon’s lahar f low during rainy days

By Marlon Loterte LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Bicol has started repositioning their surplus assistance funds and remaining goods in preparation for Mayon’s possible lahar flow when the rainy season comes. Arnel Garcia, DSWD Bicol regional director, said they are preparing for possible lahar flow as remnants of the last Mayon eruption may be rolled down due to heavy rains. The sad scenario during Typhoon Reming in 2006 is always likely to happen, he warned. With this, Garcia said they are prioritizing those families residing near rivers and along the pathways of molten rocks, erosive soil and lahar for immediate assistance. Meanwhile, Garcia expressed his gratitude in behalf of DSWD Bicol to the provincial government of Albay and the different groups and volunteers who extended their help during the Mayon relief operations. DSWD Bicol had spent P460M during the Mayon relief operations in the first quarter of the year where some 95,000 residents and evacuees received relief goods and other forms of aid at the height of Mt. Mayon’s eruptive behavior that sent them to various evacuation centers away from the danger zones.