Surigao del sur: A total of 6,505 families severely affected by Tropical Storm Basyang in Surigao del Sur received financial aid through the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Caraga Region's (DSWD-13) Emergency Cash Transfer during a series of payout activities held on Wednesday and Thursday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DSWD-13 noted that the families who received Emergency Cash Transfer aid were from the towns of Carrascal, Carmen, Cantilan, Barobo, Hinatuan, Marihatag, Tago, Bayabas, Lanuza, Cortes, Madrid, Cagwait, San Miguel, and Tandag City. The Emergency Cash Transfer is activated once a state of calamity is declared, which aims to help families recover and regain their footing from the effects of the storm.

Surigao del Sur was placed under a state of calamity through Resolution No. 762-26, approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan on February 9, following the devastation caused by Tropical Storm Basyang. Most of the beneficiaries were residents whose homes were damaged during the storm.

Residents whose homes were severely damaged received PHP10,260 each, while those with partially damaged homes got PHP5,130 each. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure timely and responsive assistance for disaster-affected families, especially during challenging times such as Tropical Storm Basyang.