Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Monday visited Barangay Balibago in Angeles City, Pampanga to monitor ongoing disaster response operations following the collapse of a 9-storey building on Sunday, May 24.

After inspecting the Delpan Evacuation Center in Manila earlier in the day, Gatchalian proceeded to the Balibago Barangay Hall to check on the condition of individuals affected by the tragedy and assess the agency’s relief efforts in the area.

In line with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the DSWD chief assured victims that the government will continue providing immediate assistance and comprehensive interventions as affected families recover from the incident.

Gatchalian also conducted an onsite inspection of the collapsed structure to evaluate the extent of the damage and coordinate with local officials regarding the current situation and the needs of affected residents.

Joining the secretary during the visit were DSWD Undersecretary Diana Rose Cajipe, DSWD Field Office 3 Regional Director Venus Rebuldela, Assistant Regional Director Armont Pecina, and Angeles City Mayor Carmelo Lazatin II.

Photo courtesy: NM