In the heart of the Bicol Region, often battered by natural disasters, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V stands as a crucial pillar of support for severely affected families. From typhoons to volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and other calamities, the Field Office 5 has developed tailored strategies to ensure no family is left behind, in alignment with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s vision that “Lahat ay may Ayuda, Walang Magugutom”. This guiding principle drives the relentless efforts of DSWD Bicol’s employees, affectionately known as “Angels in Red Vests,” who are recognized for their unwavering commitment to serving those in need.

Strategic Preparedness: Prepositioning Relief Goods and Establishing Warehouses

A key strength of DSWD Bicol is its meticulous disaster preparedness. By prepositioning relief goods in strategic locations across Bicol’s six provinces, the office ensures it is ready to respond swiftly when disaster strikes. These warehouses, stocked with essentials such as food packs, hygiene kits, and other critical supplies, guarantee immediate aid distribution.

Unique to the region, DSWD has established warehouses in island provinces, where access is often challenging due to isolation and transportation issues. By placing relief supplies in these vulnerable areas, the department can quickly mobilize aid to the most remote communities.

Moreover, the agency’s robust monitoring system, which includes Provincial Social Welfare and Development Offices (PSWAD) and Municipal Social Welfare and Development Offices (MSWAD), ensures that these warehouses are consistently maintained and prepared for rapid deployment. The Mobile Command Center (MCC) has also played a vital role by providing internet connectivity during and after disasters, further enhancing communication and coordination.

On-the-Ground Operations and Community Outreach

DSWD Bicol’s hands-on approach extends throughout all stages of disaster response. From the early hours of evacuation to providing hot meals to stranded passengers, DSWD personnel are present across the region, ensuring that no one is left hungry or unsupported. In every port of Bicol, DSWD teams distribute hot meals made from prepositioned food packs or, in collaboration with local government units (LGUs), provide meals to travelers stuck in transit. This initiative reflects DSWD’s deep commitment to the well-being of affected individuals.

In addition to meal distribution, DSWD conducts back-to-back relief operations, providing not only food and hygiene kits but also cash assistance through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Program and its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) to help families restore their homes and livelihoods. This comprehensive support system aims to alleviate immediate suffering and aid in the swift recovery of disaster-stricken communities.

An important component of these operations is the provision of psychosocial support to families, especially those who have experienced trauma from the disaster. Trained Social Workers offer emotional support and psychological first aid to help survivors cope with the stress and trauma caused by the calamity, enabling them to begin the healing process while recovering from the physical impact of the disaster.

Relief Assistance, Cash Payouts, and Continuous Monitoring

Following the initial relief phase, DSWD continues to provide ongoing support through cash assistance programs, which are crucial in helping families recover and rebuild their lives. In large-scale disasters, The agency coordinates massive cash payouts across the region, providing essential financial aid to affected households.

The dedication of DSWD employees, many of whom are part of other divisions and programs, highlights the collective spirit of cooperation. Their willingness to step beyond their regular duties during these critical operations has been central to the success of disaster responses.

Regular monitoring of evacuation centers is another vital aspect of DSWD’s operations. The department ensures that temporary shelters are properly equipped with essential services, providing displaced families with the support they need during their time of crisis.

Meanwhile, the Social Marketing Unit (SMU) of DSWD Bicol plays a key role in disseminating information to the public, regularly updating stakeholders on relief distributions, situational reports, stockpiles, and success stories that highlight the resilience of affected communities.

Collaboration and Coordination with Partner Agencies

The success of DSWD FOV’s operations hinges on its close coordination with other government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and international partners. Whether working with the Philippine Air Force, Navy, Police, Army, or Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), DSWD relies on these partners to provide essential resources, such as water, air assets, and manpower.

In addition to local government support, DSWD collaborates extensively with international organizations and non-governmental agencies to maximize its impact. Partnerships with the World Food Programme (WFP), UNICEF, UNHCR, International Organization for Migration (IOM), Cash Working Group (CWG), UNOCHA, and the Area-Based Coordination Group—which includes civil society organizations (CSOs), international non-governmental organizations (INGOs), and UN agencies—ensure a comprehensive and coordinated disaster response. These collaborations provide much-needed expertise and resources, ensuring that relief operations are as effective and far-reaching as possible.

Special attention is given to Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Areas (GIDA) and island provinces, which may become isolated during disasters. By closely collaborating with local heads of Provincial Local Government Units (PLGUs) and LGUs, DSWD ensures that resources and manpower are mobilized for the most effective disaster response.

Full Support from PLGUs: Camarines Sur, Albay and Sorsogon’s Role in Recent Typhoons

During recent typhoons, particularly Typhoons Kristine and Pepito, the full support of the Provincial Local Government Units (PLGUs) of Camarines Sur, Albay and Sorsogon played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of relief efforts.

These provinces worked closely with DSWD, providing essential resources, logistical support, and facilitating coordination with local communities. Their efforts significantly enhanced the speed and efficiency of relief distribution, ensuring that no family was left without assistance.

Guidance from the DSWD Chief and the Hands-On Leadership of the Regional Director

At the helm of these efforts is DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, whose visionary leadership has been instrumental in implementing disaster response strategies that leave no one behind. Under his guidance, DSWD Bicol has consistently maintained sufficient supplies and resources to provide immediate relief. “Walang pamilya ang pababayaan, walang pook ang maiiwan,” said Secretary Gatchalian, emphasizing his commitment to ensuring that the government is always present to support its citizens during times of crisis.

Equally significant is the hands-on leadership of Regional Director Norman S. Laurio, who is known for his proactive presence in the field. Director Laurio is often found on the ground, working alongside his team to ensure that relief operations run smoothly. His presence provides reassurance to both the affected communities and his staff. “Sa mga panahon ng kalamidad, ang bawat isa ay may tungkuling magtulungan, at sa DSWD, hindi namin hahayaan na mag-isa ang bawat pamilyang nangangailangan,” said Director Laurio, highlighting the unity that drives DSWD’s operations.

The DSWD “Angels in Red Vests”

When disaster strikes, the behind-the-scenes efforts that ensure survival and recovery are often overlooked. Yet, for the people of Bicol, the DSWD employees, affectionately called “Angels in Red Vests,” are vital figures of hope. These dedicated employees go above and beyond the call of duty, selflessly offering not only aid but also a sense of reassurance and hope to families in crisis. Through their compassion and unwavering service, they embody the very essence of public service.

A Unified Effort for a Resilient Future

The comprehensive disaster response strategies of DSWD Field Office 5 are a testament to the agency’s unwavering commitment to its mission: to serve the most vulnerable and ensure that every Filipino receives the help they need during times of calamity. With prepositioned goods, robust coordination with partner agencies, and the tireless efforts of dedicated employees, DSWD Bicol continues to be a lifeline for Bicol’s most vulnerable populations.

In a region frequently visited by disasters, DSWD’s swift, efficient, and compassionate response helps communities rebuild and emerge stronger. This ongoing unity and hard work demonstrate that, no matter the disaster, no challenge is insurmountable when people work together.

“Sa panahon ng kalamidad, ang bawat isa ay may tungkuling magtulungan, at sa DSWD, hindi namin hahayaan na mag-isa ang bawat pamilyang nangangailangan.” RD Laurio concluded. ###