Social Welfare and Development Secretary Dinky Soliman (2nd from left) and Secretary to the Cabinet Jose Rene Almendras (left) together with Compostela Valley Governor Arturo Uy (3rd from left), Congresswoman Maricar Zamora (right) and New Bataan Mayor Lorenzo Balbin Jr (not in photo) held a dialogue with  typhoon‘Pablo’ victims in the municipality.

Almost 100 community leaders and victims from the affected areas in New Bataan participated in the dialogue and open forum with the government officials.  The dialogue was conducted in order to validate the aid provided to the community, as well as to assure the victims that the national and local governments will work hard to address their concerns

During the open forum, the victims expressed their need for livelihood and shelter.

In response, Secretary Dinky Soliman said bunkhouses will be constructed within December to serve as temporary shelters for the victims. Secretary Soliman also emphasized that as part of the livelihood intervention, the victims will help build the bunkhouses and they will be paid through the cash-for-work program.

She added that aside from the relief goods being provided for the daily food needs of the victims, the DSWD is preparing for the distribution of noche buena packs to all victims of ‘Pablo,” for them to feel the spirit of the Christmas season.

The national and local officials also emphasized the need for the victims to work hand in hand with the government towards the road to recovery.  Secretary Almendras encouraged the typhoon victims themselves to cooperate with the national and local governments in the relief and rehabilitation efforts. ### (DSWD-Social Marketing Service) December 15, 2012