DHSUD prepares cash assistance to quake victims in Mindanao
The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) is now readying financial assistance to the families that lost their homes to the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Mindanao two weeks ago.
DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said he already ordered the department’s officials in Davao Region and Soccsksargen (South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani and General. Santos) to expedite the provision of financial assistance.
Under the DHSUD’s Rental Subsidy and Financial Assistance Program, families with totally damaged homes may receive up to P10,000 in cash aid.
And based on the DHSUD data, around 673 houses were totally damaged in the two regions.
Acuzr said he also instructed local DHSUD officials to closely coordinate with the affected local government units (LGUs) and facilitate the immediate release of financial aid for families with totally destroyed houses.
DHSUD Undersecretary for Disaster Response Randy Escolango said they are constantly monitoring the situation in the two regions and keeping the management updated on the extent of damages to ensure that the needed support is aptly provided.
More than the financial aid, Acuzar earlier stated that families living in danger zones are among the priority beneficiaries of the government’s flagship Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.
“The recent calamities further push us to work harder to provide safe, decent and affordable housing units across the country through the 4PH program,” said Acuzar.
“We are motivated now, more than ever, to help relocate families living in danger zones to mitigate the effects of disasters. We see to it that we put them on top priority as every Filipino family deserves to live in resilient and sustainable communities,” he added.