In line with its mandate on disaster response and recovery, the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office V – Bicol Region, through its Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD) social workers, conducted a post-eruption assessment in the municipalities of Juban and Irosin, Sorsogon following the recent unrest of Mt. Bulusan.

In adherence to the directive of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. to prioritize the welfare of disaster-affected populations, Regional Director Norman Laurio ordered the DRMD team to carry out series of community assessments and house-to-house visits in the most affected barangays.

To ensure the safety and health of the impacted families, particularly the vulnerable sectors, the team visited Barangays Monbon and Cogon in Irosin, and Barangay Puting Sapa in Juban, areas situated within six kilometers of the volcano’s danger zone and currently experiencing continued ashfall.

The assessment focused on children, senior citizens, and individuals with reported health concerns linked to volcanic ash exposure. Social workers also examined the status of water sources, especially open water systems, to verify if they remain safe for consumption and use.

Following the results of the assessment, the DSWD Bicol will be sending additional distilled water supplies to the affected barangays within the day.

Meanwhile, DRMD has documented vulnerable individuals who experienced health issues due to the eruption, and they will be referred to appropriate programs and services of the agency, including the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS).

Amid ongoing close monitoring of Mt. Bulusan’s volcanic activity, DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian has reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to continuous monitoring and timely provision of assistance to the affected families.###