Pandan, Catanduanes — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V – Bicol Region has swiftly extended financial assistance and essential support to the families of five fishermen who went missing in the waters off the Pacific coast on January 6.

On January 17, 2025, each affected family received PHP 10,000 under the Agency’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) Program. In addition, the DSWD “Angels in Red Vests” distributed two boxes of food packs to each family. These packs contain basic goods designed to address their immediate needs.

DSWD Bicol staff conducting an interview with a family member of a missing fisherman in Pandan, Catanduanes.

Furthermore, the Department is arranging livelihood support for the families through its Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). This assistance aims to help address their long-term income needs as their primary breadwinners remain missing.

These relief efforts were made possible with the cooperation of the Local Government Unit of Pandan, which also provided additional assistance to the families.

On January 15, 2025, DSWD Bicol also provided cash assistance, family food packs, and other forms of support to the families of four other fishermen who went missing in Tabaco City around the same time.

Under the leadership of Regional Director Norman S. Laurio, DSWD Bicol remains committed to offering services with compassion and care, especially to families enduring crisis situations.