DHSUD readies P15-M cash assistance to 'Kristine' affected victims in Bicol


The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) allocated an initial P15 million cash assistance for the residents of Bicol region whose houses were damaged by tropical storm “Kristine”.

DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar said the cash assistance is part of the Integrated Disaster Shelter Assistance Program (IDSAP) wherein an unconditional cash assistance of P30,000 will be given to victims whose houses were totally damaged, and P10,000 for those with partially damaged residences.

“Our much-needed cash assistance should be extended immediately to families whose houses were damaged as instructed by the President,” said Acuzar.

Acuzar said the DHSUD Regional Offices in areas ravaged by "Kristine," particularly Bicol Region, are working closely with the local government units to facilitate and expedite the processing of those qualified for IDSAP.

For his part, DHSUD Undersecretary for Disaster Response Randy Escolango said that aside from the P15 million allocated initially for Region 5 particularly Camarines Sur and Albay, assistance to other affected areas are also being processed by DHSUD.

“Apart from the IDSAP, DHSUD's key shelter agencies will also implement a one month moratorium for payments of monthly amortization for typhoon victims who have outstanding housing loans,” said Escolango.