Western visayas: Assistance extended to families affected by Typhoon Tino in Western Visayas has reached over PHP44 million, according to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in its 4 p.m. report on Thursday. The relief efforts are aimed at alleviating the hardships faced by affected residents in the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DSWD reported that over PHP38.048 million of the aid was provided directly by the department, while the remaining funds were contributed by local government units and nongovernment organizations. The report detailed the distribution of 62,518 family food packs, with significant allocations to provinces including Capiz, which received 19,565 packs, and Iloilo, receiving 17,460 packs.

Further distributions included 6,671 food packs in Aklan, 13,493 in Antique, 2,552 in Guimaras, and 2,777 in Iloilo City. The DSWD currently holds over PHP48.72 million in available relief resources, comprising PHP2.79 million in standby funds and PHP45.93 million worth of food and non-food items, ensuring continued support for affected families.

The DSWD noted that the weather disturbance has impacted 263,584 families, totaling 860,527 individuals across 2,480 barangays. Of these, 20,819 families or 69,803 individuals remain sheltered in 977 evacuation centers, while another 17,252 families or 58,971 individuals have sought refuge with neighbors and relatives.

The impact on housing has been severe, with 8,159 houses partially damaged and 177 completely destroyed in the region. Iloilo province reported the highest number of partially damaged houses at 5,679 and recorded the largest number of completely destroyed houses at 90.