Matnog, Sorsogon — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V-Bicol Region quickly responded to the tragic landslide that occurred in Barangay Bariis, Matnog, Sorsogon which claimed the lives of two residents.
According to the reports, due to the relentless rain brought about by the Tropical Storm #AdaPH, it destabilized the soil, unleashing a harmful landslide down the residential area affecting two households.
The unexpected incident occurred on January 17, 2026, at approximately 12 midnight while the families were asleep, leaving them unable to escape and instantly claimed the lives of a 22-year-old man, and a 19-year-old woman. Meanwhile other survivors sustained minor injuries.
The massive boulders, reportedly almost a house-sized, crashed into the residence which totally destroyed the two houses.
As an immediate response, on the same day, DSWD Bicol Regional Director Norman S. Laurio quickly mobilized the SWAD Sorsogon and Crisis Intervention Section (CIS) in Irosin, Sorsogon to conduct an urgent in-person assessment and home visit to the impacted families.
During the visit, the CIS Social workers provided Psychosocial First Aid to the affected families to help them address the emotional distress resulting from bereavement. Additionally, other families were also provided with similar emotional support to help them cope with possible trauma brought by the incident.
Under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) Program the bereaved families will be receiving funeral assistance to help them with the burial costs.
Furthermore, additional cash relief assistance is being arranged intended to augment their immediate needs and daily subsistence.
Meanwhile, the LGU Matnog also provided Php5,000 each to the bereaved families.
Guided by DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the Field Office V is actively coordinating with all the Local Government Units (LGUs) impacted by the tropical storm for the urgent provision of necessary assistance to the affected families and individuals.
Reflected from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr’s directives, the Department remains steadfast in providing quick, efficient and effective assistance to all the Filipinos in need, particularly in times of emergencies and disasters. #