DSWD conducts de-briefing session, assists early recovery of families of Itogon landslide victims
Family members of the victims from Itogon were assisted by the DSWD through psychological interventions. This is in addition to the initial relief assistance provided to the families.
“Our hearts are filled with sorrow as we give them the interventions. We know that no amount of assitance can equate to the value of the lives that were claimed unexpectedly.”, DSWD-CAR OIC Regional Director Janet P. Armas said.
During the onslaught of TY Ompong, a landslide occurred at Brgy. Ucab, Itogon, Benguet which is seen to have caused the death of 105 individuals. This number is yet to be finalized.
On 17 September 2018, teams composed of social workers from the DSWD-CAR provided assistance to the LGU of Itogon to assist the families. Psychosocial interventions like de-briefing were provided. The social workers conducted assessment for the provision of necessary assistance.
“We have initially provided a total of 700 family food packs and other non-food items to all the victims of TY Ompong in Itogon. The assessment will determine the additional assistance that we can give.”, Armas added.
The DSWD will also provide financial and burial assistance to the victims.
Armas further said that the DSWD tries to reach the communities for the Department to know the spefic needs of the victims.
“We know that we cannot take away the pain of losing our loved ones. But we will do our best to assist the local government unit in helping the victims get through this challenge. We, in DSWD-CAR, are praying for the families and the victims.”, Dir. Armas said.
“The DSWD-CAR will continue to provide psychosocial interventions as well as relief assistance to the families. We will do our best to be with them on their journey towards recovery”, Armas added.
