49 Uwan-hit families get cash aid

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — As 49 families continue to recover from the impact of Typhoon Uwan, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Cordillera facilitated the release of emergency cash payout here on Tuesday.

“The cash payout meant more than immediate relief. It offered reassurance, dignity and a hopeful step forward, helping them start the coming year with greater confidence and resilience,” DSWD-Cordillera director Maria Aplaten said.

According to Aplaten, government agencies remain ready to respond to communities in need as she assured typhoon-affected families that recovery efforts would continue to help them rebuild their homes and livelihoods.

DSWD spokesperson Irene Dumlao said the emergency cash transfer program provides immediate and unconditional assistance to families affected by calamities, allowing them to respond according to the most urgent needs, which include buying food or medicine, repairing damaged houses and covering unexpected expenses.

“Unlike traditional relief packs, the program helps bridge the critical period between emergency response and early recovery,” Dumlao said.

She added that the program also helps stimulate local markets as beneficiaries spend the cash within their communities, supporting small businesses affected by the typhoon.