The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Caraga (DSWD-13) has stepped up relief operations to ease the impact of the prolonged dry spell on residents across the region.

Over the weekend, the agency simultaneously distributed 18,698 family food packs (FFPs) in two towns in Dinagat Islands and one municipality in Surigao del Sur.

In Carmen, Surigao del Sur, which has been under a state of calamity since last week, DSWD-13 released 3,185 FFPs to affected residents.

Responding to a request for augmentation from the local government unit (LGU) of Carmen, the agency also approved the release of 10 kilos of rice each to 3,188 families over the weekend.

“Through the continued mobilization of local resources and coordination with national government agencies, the LGU Carmen remains committed to providing timely and responsive services to its constituents during this period of crisis,” the LGU said in a statement Tuesday.

In Dinagat Islands, 9,020 FFPs were distributed to residents in San Jose and 6,493 in Basilisa.

San Jose residents also received 9,020 10-liter bottled water containers along with 5,000 jerry cans and refillable dispensers.

Dinagat Islands has been under a state of calamity due to a water crisis since mid-August.

In Butuan City, the DSWD-13 water tanker continues to support rationing operations led by the city government and the Butuan City Water District, particularly in Barangays Masao and Villa Kananga.

“The agency remains committed to providing timely assistance to families affected by the impacts of El Niño, particularly those experiencing challenges in accessing food and water,” DSWD-13 said. (PNA)