DHSUD activates shelter teams in anticipation of ‘Mawar’
THE Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) has activated its local shelter cluster teams in areas with expected heavy rains due to Super Typhoon “Betty” (international name: “Mawar”).
DHSUD Secretary Jose Rizalino Acuzar issued the directive as a proactive measure to ensure readiness of the concerned regional offices for any eventuality.
“Per instruction of Secretary Acuzar, we have discussed the needs and actions to take knowing that this is a super typhoon. As part of our functions during calamities, close coordination with other concerned agencies is being intensified led by our regional personnel,” said Undersecretary for Regional Operations Lyle Pasco.
He added the department has experts on the grounds to provide real-time and reliable reports, which helps them in making immediate actions and tap other resources if needed.
The regional shelter clusters were also tasked to facilitate emergency response and humanitarian assistance for possible untoward effects of the said super typhoon.
“Aside from monitoring the needs for emergency shelter during and after typhoons, we get to assess areas that may have become new spots for danger zones. This helps us discuss with local government units in updating their comprehensive land use plan,” Pasco explained.
During calamities, DHSUD local shelter teams are closely working with the Office of Civil Defense, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, and other concerned government agencies to harmonize efforts in helping affected families.