The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) clarified today that there are no rotten rice stored in its depot in Panacan, Davao City, contrary to news reports.

The Department added that the sacks of rice stored in the Panacan depot are intended not only for Pablo victims but also for victims of emergencies or other disasters. The rice that were allegedly reported “rotten” are part of the Field Office’s stockpile.

The DSWD explained that its regional offices are required to maintain a 3,000 level of stockpile of family food packs at a given time to be distributed during emergencies or disasters.

“The sacks of rice that were seen by the crew of a TV station stored at the DSWD warehouse in Panacan are part of the stockpile maintained by the DSWD Region XI office,” DSWD Assistant Secretary Camilo Gudmalin said.

Assistant Secretary Gudmalin further explained that the rice have not been distributed because they are part of the DSWD’s continuing assistance to augment LGUs that will be affected by future emergencies or disasters.

Meanwhile, Assistant Secretary Gudmalin reiterated that Pablo victims belonging to vulnerable groups such as pregnant and lactating mothers, senior citizens, persons with disabilities, solo household heads, chronically ill household heads will continue to receive food assistance until end of August, subject to assessment.

The continued relief assistance for the vulnerable groups is part of DSWD’s commitment to assist Pablo victims. ###