By Tony Chavez
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has readied cash assistance for victims of severe tropical storm Kristine in the Bicol Region, which is among the hardest-hit areas.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said that the much-needed cash assistance under the Department’s Integrated Disaster Shelter Assistance Program (IDSAP) should be extended immediately to families whose houses were damaged.
Under IDSAP, the DHSUD can provide unconditional cash assistance of P30,000 for victims whose houses were damaged, and P10,000 for those with partially damaged residences.
Currently, DHSUD Regional Offices in areas ravaged by "Kristine," particularly RO 5, are working closely with LGUs to facilitate and expedite the processing of those qualified for IDSAP.
"Ngayon na po kailangan ng ating mga kababayan ang tulong na ito, kaya dapat bilisan natin ang proseso katulong ang mga local government units," said Secretary Acuzar, who was with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in Naga City on Saturday to assess the situation in Region 5.
"Ang utos ng Pangulo ay agaran at tuloy tuloy na tulong para sa ating mga kababayan nabiktima ng bagyo, kaya lahat ng pwede nating itulong ay gawin na natin agad," he added.
DHSUD Undersecretary for Disaster Response Randy Escolango has constantly communicated with the affected ROs and frequently met regional directors to ensure the expeditious and proper release of cash assistance.
He said that aside from the P15 million initially allocated for Region 5, particularly Camarines Sur and Albay, DHSUD is also processing assistance to other affected areas.
Apart from the IDSAP, DHSUD's key shelter agencies will also implement a one-month moratorium for monthly amortization payments for typhoon victims who have outstanding housing loans.
Comments