Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte – The Bicol Region is in the process of recovering from the devastating effects of Typhoons Enteng, Kristine, Nika, and Pepito, which caused widespread flooding, landslides, and over ₱11 billion in damages to agriculture and infrastructure. Thousands of farmers, fisherfolk, and residents are left struggling with destroyed crops and repeated devastation, urgently needing support to recover and rebuild their livelihoods.

In response, and in line with directives from Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V, led by Regional Director Norman Laurio, has launched a comprehensive recovery effort under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). Priority has been given to Individually Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the hardest-hit coastal and catch-basin areas. The “Angels in Red Vests” team promptly conducted validation activities to ensure that aid reaches the intended beneficiaries.

On November 29, 2024, DSWD Bicol initiated the first phase of its Livelihood Settlement Grant (LSG) distribution in the coastal town of Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte, releasing ₱4.9 million in grants to support individuals in restoring their livelihoods. A total of 245 beneficiaries, predominantly fisherfolk and farmers, each received ₱20,000 to help rehabilitate their income-generating activities, which had been severely impacted by the series of typhoons.

One of the recipients, Eralf Andaya from Labuyo Integrated Farm, shared his experience and expressed his gratitude:

“Yung uncertainty ng bagyo left us devastated. Nilubog po nito yung palaisdaan namin—halos ₱150,000 po ang nalugi sa amin, lalo na nitong Kristine. Nagsabay po yung high tide at bagyo kaya talagang lumubog. Kaya itong grant na binigay sa amin ng DSWD ay hindi lamang pera—binigyan po nila kami ng pag-asa. Pagbubutihin po namin ang ipinagkatiwala sa amin. Maraming salamat po, DSWD,” he said.

Jose Panganiban Mayor Ariel Non also expressed his appreciation for DSWD’s direct involvement in both relief efforts and recovery initiatives:

“Alam natin na talagang mahirap bumangon kung wala namang kapital na maaaring gamitin sa muling pag-umpisa. Kung kaya andito ang DSWD, handang umalalay sa mga taong gusto talagang makabangon muli sa buhay,” he said.

RD Laurio stressed the importance of working in partnership with local government units (LGUs) to achieve successful recovery:

“The role of LGUs in the recovery phase is critical. Their local knowledge and support enhance DSWD’s programs, enabling communities to rebuild their lives more effectively. Together, we can overcome these challenges and create a more resilient future.”

This distribution marks the beginning of DSWD Bicol’s broader recovery strategy. Through the Livelihood Settlement Grants, the agency aims to empower beneficiaries to restore their primary sources of income, paving the way for sustainable recovery for affected families.

The agency reaffirms its commitment to supporting typhoon-affected communities. Through timely, targeted interventions, the Field Office V remains resolute in its mission to assist those most in need, helping to foster resilience and long-term recovery.###