TUBA, BENGUET – The Department of Social Welfare and Development – Field Office Cordillera Administrative Region (DSWD FO CAR) with the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Tuba, mobilized assistance for families affected by a structural fire at Riverside Compound, Sitio Camp 6, Barangay Camp 4, Tuba, Benguet. The fire, which broke out at around 1:00 AM on 1 January 1 2024, displaced 62 families composed of 196 individuals and caused significant damage to 31 homes, including 27 that were totally destroyed and 4 partially damaged.
The LGU of Tuba promptly initiated relief efforts by conducting needs assessments, providing logistical support, and coordinating shelter arrangements for affected families, who are currently staying with relatives or friends. Meanwhile, the DSWD FO CAR, led by Regional Director Maria Catbagen-Aplaten,PhD deployed response teams from the Social Welfare and Development (SWAD) Benguet, and the Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD). The Mobile Command Center was also stationed on-site to facilitate faster communication and coordination.
As of 2 January 2025, DSWD FO CAR distributed essential relief items, including 375 Family Food Packs (FFPs), 62 Hygiene Kits, 56 Family Kits, 56 Sleeping Kits, and 56 Kitchen Kits. The total cost of provided by DSWD amounts to ₱710,683.05, covering food and non-food items. Contributions from LGUs, non-government organizations and national government agencies are still being consolidated. Additionally, 187 bottles of 6-liter drinking water were provided to the affected families.
The Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) and the Crisis Intervention Section (CIS) are conducting ongoing assessments to facilitate further assistance. No families are currently staying in evacuation centers as all 62 displaced families are temporarily sheltered with relatives or friends.
“The DSWD FO CAR continues to work closely with the LGU of Tuba and other partners to assess ongoing needs and plan recovery measures for the affected families. We are doing this to help those impacted by this incident rebuild their lives” DSWD FO CAR Regional Director Maria A. Catbagan-Aplaten, PhD shared. ### DSWD-CAR Social Marketing Unit –Novelle G. Ongat, Information Officer II
