Ilocos Norte Prepares for La Niña with Food Packages and Emergency SuppliesIlocos Norte Prepares for La Niña with Food Packages and Emergency Supplies In anticipation of the impending La Niña weather phenomenon, the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in Ilocos Norte has initiated the distribution of food packages to strategic locations. According to Acting Provincial Officer for Social Affairs and Development Rochelle Gajes, food parcels have been dispatched to PSWDO satellite warehouses in Solsona, Pasuquin, Banna, and Pagudpud. PSWDO has also stocked up on non-food items such as blankets, towels, sleeping bags, coffee mugs, and clothing for those in need. Additionally, 630 50-kilo bags of rice from the National Food Authority (NFA) and 285 5-kilo packs are ready for distribution in the event of any disasters, particularly severe typhoons. Due to its geographical vulnerability, Ilocos Norte is prone to natural disasters. The municipalities of Solsona and Dingras are at high risk of soil erosion, flooding, and drought, while Pagudpud and Adams mountain areas face severe landslides and isolation during inclement weather. To mitigate shortages and ensure the well-being of residents during emergencies, the PSWD’s food parcel initiative aims to provide essential supplies. Gajes emphasizes the preparedness of the office in responding swiftly to emergencies by stocking food and non-food packages.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) in Ilocos Norte has started deploying food packages in strategic locations as part of its preparedness for the expected La Niña weather phenomenon.
Acting Provincial Officer for Social Affairs and Development Rochelle Gajes told the Philippine News Agency on Friday that food parcels have been sent to PSWDO satellite warehouses in the towns of Solsona, Pasuquin, Banna and Pagudpud.
“Non-food items such as blankets, towels, sleeping bags, coffee mugs and clothing are also available for those who need them most,” she said.
In addition, a total of 630 50-kilo bags of rice from the National Food Authority (NFA) and 285 5-kilo packs are ready for shipment in case of any disasters that might occur this year, especially strong typhoons. added.
Due to its geographical location, Ilocos Norte is vulnerable to almost all types of natural disasters.
In the geo-hazard map, the municipalities of Solsona and Dingras have been identified as areas at high risk of soil erosion, flooding and drought, particularly in Barangays Puttao, Sta. Ana and Nagpatpatan in Solsona, and Barangays Francisco, San Marcelino and Barong in Dingras.
Residents of the Pagudpud and Adams mountain areas in the First District of Ilocos Norte are also prone to severe landslides and during bad weather these areas are often isolated for days.
Gajes said the PSWD’s food parcel initiative is aimed at alleviating shortages and ensuring residents have access to essential supplies during emergencies.
“We have already prepared food and non-food packages to ensure a quick response to the affected families,” she said. (PNA)
