Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) quick response teams are on alert to support local government units (LGUs) as Tropical Depression Mirasol advances across the country.

According to Philippines News Agency, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao from the Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) confirmed that frontline personnel in affected areas are monitoring developments to ensure timely aid. The DSWD has strategically positioned 2,578,821 boxes of family food packs across its warehouses to facilitate swift relief operations.

These provisions are supplemented by 114,623 ready-to-eat food (RTEF) boxes, designated for individuals potentially stranded due to disrupted sea travel. The RTEFs are also intended to provide immediate sustenance for evacuees while LGUs work on setting up community kitchens.

Additionally, the DSWD has prepared 313,064 non-food items (NFIs), including blankets, hygiene kits, kitchen kits, and modular tents, to support those seeking refuge in evacuation centers. Dumlao emphasized the ongoing coordination between DSWD field offices and LGUs as directed by Secretary Rex Gatchalian.

As part of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the DSWD will maintain communication with the Department of Science and Technology’s Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) for updates on Mirasol’s impact. As of 8 a.m. Wednesday, DOST-PAGASA reported Mirasol passing over northern Luzon after making landfall in Aurora province.

Dumlao urged citizens to remain vigilant and follow local government directives to ensure safety.