MSSD-BARMM helps Storm-Surge Affected Families in Sitangkay, Tawi-Tawi
COTABATO CITY (May 23, 2024) — Recently, 99 families on Panggungan Island, Sitangkai, in Tawi-Tawi province have received significant relief from the Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD) through its Tawi-Tawi Provincial Office following a devastating storm surge.
Under the Bangsamoro Critical Assistance for Indigents in Response to Emergency Situations (BCARES) program of the ministry, 49 of these families received PhP 10,000 each. This financial aid is intended to help them meet immediate needs and begin the process of rebuilding their storm-damaged homes, the ministry said.
In addition to the cash assistance, according to MSSD, 50 Badjao women received hygiene kits that included essentials such as malong or blankets, bath soap, a bath towel, shampoo, toothpaste, a toothbrush, alcohol, and sanitary pads. These women also attended an informative lecture on Women’s Rights, organized by the Office of Social Welfare and Development in Davao City.
MSSD said that they continue to evaluate the situation and the needs of the affected families to provide any further necessary support. This initiative is part of MSSD’s ongoing commitment to deliver comprehensive social services to vulnerable communities in the Bangsamoro region, ensuring that each family receives the necessary help to recover and thrive. (Hasna U. Bacol, BMN/ Bangsamoro Today)
