Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Disaster Response Management Bureau (DRMB) has activated its Disaster Response Management Divisions (DRMDs) across all Field Offices in preparation for Super Typhoon Nando (international name Ragasa) approaching Northern Luzon.

According to Philippines News Agency, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao of the DSWD’s Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) emphasized the readiness of food and non-food items (FNIs) and the preparedness of evacuation centers for those potentially displaced by the typhoon. In a statement, she assured that the government, guided by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment, has already prepositioned FNIs strategically to ensure no Filipino family goes hungry during this crisis.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 5 has been issued in certain areas, with the super typhoon maintaining its strength and possibly impacting the Babuyan Islands by midday or afternoon on Monday.

As the lead agency in three clusters under the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the DSWD oversees Food and Non-Food Items (FNI), Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM), and Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) Protection. Dumlao noted that DRMDs are working diligently to evaluate evacuation centers to ensure they are safe, accessible, and well-equipped for affected families.

Quick Response Teams (QRTs) have been instructed to remain on alert, coordinating closely with local government units (LGUs) and Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (LDRRMCs) to facilitate pre-emptive evacuations and ensure an organized disaster response.

The DSWD continues to uphold its mandate to protect lives and guarantee the safety and well-being of all citizens as the nation faces this significant weather threat, Dumlao stated.