Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) has placed the region on red alert as part of its preparations for the possible effects of Tropical Storm Ada, prioritizing the safety and welfare of potentially affected communities. DSWD Bicol Regional Director Norman Laurio stated that the agency has PHP158.8 million worth of standby funds and relief supplies ready for augmentation.

According to Philippines News Agency, these resources include 171,408 family food packs and more than 13,000 non-food items such as hygiene kits, family kits, sleeping kits, and kitchen kits. Laurio noted that DSWD's mobile assets, including its mobile kitchen and mobile command center, which were deployed in evacuation centers due to the Mayon Volcano eruption, are also on standby for possible redeployment to support local government units.

Laurio emphasized, "Although we are currently engaged in operations due to the eruption of Mayon Volcano and shearline, our resources, funds, and social protection mobilities are fully prepared for the arrival of the first typhoon of the year here in Bicol."

The agency has also prioritized the establishment of Child-Friendly Spaces and Women-Friendly Spaces in evacuation centers to help protect evacuees, particularly from the risk of gender-based violence during disasters. Quick Response Teams from the Disaster Response Management Division, along with provincial, city, and municipal social welfare offices, have been activated and deployed to ports and vulnerable barangays to conduct monitoring and immediate response.

Meanwhile, DSWD distributed ready-to-eat food boxes to stranded passengers, with 300 boxes provided at Matnog Port, 26 at Castilla Port, and 25 at Pilar Port in Sorsogon. These food packs contain items that can be consumed immediately, ensuring stranded travelers have access to safe meals while sea travel remains suspended.