To ensure organized evacuation management, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-7) has intensified its efforts in camp coordination, camp management (CCCM), and the protection of internally displaced persons (IDPs) across various evacuation sites established in Northern Cebu affected by the recent earthquake.
In a statement released by DSWD-7, the agency highlighted that as part of its enhanced disaster response operations, it has deployed additional personnel to the local government units (LGUs) of Bogo City, San Remigio, Medellin, and Daanbantayan to serve as camp managers and staff.
They added that this move aims to ensure the organized management of evacuation sites and the timely encoding and reporting of camp data.
DSWD-7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to supporting quake-hit LGUs in Northern Cebu through ongoing technical assistance and on-ground coordination.
‘DSWD Field Office 7, in collaboration with government and non-government partners, remains at the forefront of ensuring that internally displaced persons are safe and comfortable while temporarily staying in camps,’ said Lucero.
Since October 1, 2025, DSWD-7 has extended comprehensive humanitarian assistance to quake-affected LGUs in Northern Cebu.
This includes the distribution of food and non-food items, the provision of psychosocial support services, the deployment of response vehicles and camp personnel, and data-gathering support for local governments.
In the same statement, DSWD-7 camp manager Provost Japitana shared his experience working with displaced families in Barangay Banban, Bogo City, one of the hardest-hit remote areas. According to him, among their priorities is building healthy relationships with the IDPs to maintain a harmonious environment in the camp.
‘We assist in organizing camp operations and ensuring peace and order. We also conduct psychosocial activities, especially for women and children,’ Japitana said.
He, however, admitted that the role is not without challenges but described it as rewarding, especially when camp managers like him are still trying to build rapport with displaced families.
For Lilibeth Cabiara, chief of the DSWD’s Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD), the continuous deployment of DSWD personnel to affected LGUs ensures the protection and welfare of internally displaced persons.
‘In every disaster, IDPs are among the most vulnerable. We ensure that displaced families have a safe space to stay temporarily during and after the disaster,’ she said.
‘Through our CCCM and IDP Protection initiatives, we make evacuation camps more conducive for all displaced individuals and families,’ she added.
As typhoon looms, Cebu Archbishop calls for relocation
Meanwhile, as Tropical Storm Tino officially enters the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR), Cebu Archbishop Alberto Sy Uy has called on LGUs to urgently relocate families affected by the recent earthquake that are still living in tents.
This comes as the archbishop, currently in Bohol for Kalag-Kalag observances and pastoral duties, expressed deep concern for communities in Northern Cebu, especially the elderly and children.
At 2 p.m. yesterday, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) issued Storm Surge Warning No. 1, placing several coastal provinces under alert for possible inundation within the next 48 hours.
According to them, the Eastern Samar faces a high risk of a storm surge exceeding three meters, while Dinagat Islands, Leyte, Northern and Western Samar, and Surigao del Norte may experience surge heights between 2.1 and 3 meters.
Cebu, along with Bohol, Biliran, Southern Leyte, and other Visayan provinces, is under moderate risk, with surge levels ranging from one to two meters. In line with this, residents in low-lying coastal areas are advised to move to higher ground and suspend all marine activities.
With this pressing concern, Archbishop Uy urged LGU leaders to act swiftly, emphasizing that many churches and gyms may no longer be structurally sound to protect residents due to the damage sustained from the recent earthquake.
He recommended relocating vulnerable residents to safer structures, even if it means transferring them to neighboring towns with intact facilities. He, however, acknowledged the logistical challenges but stressed that proactive relocation is the most prudent course of action.
He also called on parish priests to assist in guiding and preparing communities, despite the difficulties they themselves face in quake-affected areas.
During All Souls’ Day, Uy offered prayers of thanksgiving and protection, invoking divine mercy for those in distress. He prayed for safety from the storm and strength for those who continue to suffer, especially in areas where aftershocks are still being felt.