TACLOBAN CITY – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 8 – Eastern Visayas extended assistance to stranded truckers, drivers, and other motorists on San Juanico Bridge
Regional Director Grace Subong led the distribution of Family Food Packs (FFPs) based on profiling and assessment through the Family Access Card in Emergencies and Disasters (FACED). The assessment identified the immediate needs of affected individuals who have been stranded for days due to the three-ton limit imposed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in passing vehicles due to the structural damage of the 50-year-old bridge.
DSWD-8 has deployed a Mobile Command Center (MCC) for quick coordination, communication, and reporting on the bridge’s situation. The deployments are part of the Blue Alert Status raised by the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC). The Department has also activated a Quick Response Team (QRT) manned by Angels in Red Vests.
DSWD-8 is still coordinating with the local government units in the area to identify the actual numbers of affected individuals. (By Marie Tonette Marticio/EV Mail MAY 19-25, 2025 issue)
