The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in Ilocos Norte has started prepositioning food packs in strategic locations as part of its preparation for the anticipated La Niña weather phenomenon.

Acting Provincial Social Welfare and Development officer Rochelle Gajes told the Philippine News Agency on Friday that food packs have been dispatched to satellite warehouses of the PSWDO in the towns of Solsona, Pasuquin, Banna, and Pagudpud.

“Non-food items such as blankets, towels, sleepers, coffee mugs, and clothes are also in place for those who may need them most,” she said.

In addition, a total of 630 sacks of rice at 50 kilos each from the National Food Authority (NFA) and 285 packs at five kilos each are on standby for dispatch in case of any disasters that might occur this year, especially strong typhoons, she added.

Due to its geographical location, Ilocos Norte is vulnerable to almost all types of natural hazards.

In its geo-hazard map, the municipalities of Solsona and Dingras have been identified as high-risk areas for soil erosion, flooding, and drought particularly in Barangays Puttao, Sta. Ana, and Nagpatpatan in Solsona, and Barangays Francisco, San Marcelino, and Barong in Dingras.

Residents in the mountainous areas of Pagudpud and Adams in the first district of Ilocos Norte are also prone to severe landslides and during bad weather, these areas are often isolated for days.

Gajes said the prepositioning of food packs by the PSWD is meant to mitigate shortages and ensure that residents have access to essential supplies during emergencies.

“We have prepositioned food and non-food packs already to ensure quick response to affected families,” she said. (PNA)