The Department of Social Welfare and Development XI has reiterated that its family food packs (FFPs) and non-food items are intended for families and individuals affected by disasters.

In a statement, DSWD XI OIC-Regional Director Ronald Ryan Cui stressed that the food packs particularly should be distributed within seven (7) days upon receipt of the requesting local government units (LGUs), based on DSWD Administrative Order No. 2, series of 2021.

“The distribution of these FFPs shall be based primarily on their need, and not on their political stance or affiliation. As long as they have been affected by disaster occurrences and they have been validated by the Local Social Welfare and Development Offices (LSWDOs), they should be entitled to receive the food packs,” Director Cui said.

Director Cui added that the request for food and non-food items shall emanate from the LGUs as provided under the Omnibus Guidelines on Food and Non-Food Item and Logistics Management for Disaster Operations and they shall ensure that these items are duly accounted for.

On the other hand, Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD) OIC-Chief Lolita Roble ensured that DSWD XI has more than adequate number of food and non-food items on standby that can be immediately deployed to communities in need.

“As of now, we have 12,311 family food packs on floor and more than Php 20 million worth of non-food items, ready to be distributed to requesting LGUs,” Roble said.

The provision of food and non-food items is one of the mandates of DSWD as provided under Republic Act 10121 or the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010.