The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has more than 2.1 million family food packs (FFPs) prepositioned in key areas across the country ahead of Typhoon Tino (international name Kalmaegi).

In a statement, Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao of the DSWD’s Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) said the agency has begun preparations as early as last week, especially in areas expected to be hit by the typhoon.

“Since last week, we have been monitoring this weather phenomenon and are regularly coordinating with PAGASA (Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration) to understand the forecast track of Typhoon Tino,” the DSWD spokesperson said.

Currently, there are over 128,000 FFPs ready for distribution in Eastern Visayas; about 89,000 food packs in Western Visayas; and more than 81,000 food packs in the Caraga region.

“That’s the value of prepositioning. Anytime, handa tayo kasi sabi nga ng Pangulong (Ferdinand R.) Marcos Jr., dapat tiyakin natin yung kapanatagan ng kalooban ng ating mga kababayan at matiyak na wala pong kababayang Pilipino ang magugutom sa gitna ng kalamidad (We are ready anytime. As President Marcos always say, we must ensure the peace of mind of our countrymen and assure that no Filipino will go hungry amid calamities),” Dumlao said.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 3 has been issued in several areas, prompting residents in coastal and low-lying communities to find safer locations as Typhoon Tino approaches land.

PAGASA has warned of storm surges exceeding three meters in several parts of Visayas and Mindanao.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Operations Center (NDRRMOC) has been placed under Red Alert since 8 a.m. Monday to strengthen coordination and monitoring among government agencies.

Meanwhile, Dumlao reminded the public to heed government advisories for their own safety. (PNA)