2 weeks ago
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TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Social Welfare and Development's Field Office Eastern Visayas (DSWD-8) provided support to those affected by the San Juanico Bridge repair-related travel restrictions.
DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao reported on Tuesday that the agency distributed 211 boxes of family food packs (FFPs) worth P135,472.55 to drivers, travelers and commuters stranded near the bridge.
"Upon the instructions of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, the Field Office-8 immediately provided FFPs to all the affected truckers, porters, drivers and passengers," Dumlao said.
In addition to distributing food packs, DSWD-8 plans to deploy a mobile kitchen to serve hot meals to those stranded.
"We will meet with local governments on how to assist the stranded passengers," Grace Subong, DSWD Eastern Visayas regional director, said.
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"For the first time, we will deploy our mobile kitchen to provide hot meals to affected truckers and travelers," she added.
For their part, Tingog party-list has launched a 24-hour free ride service for affected passengers, while setting up temporary terminals and assistance centers on both sides of the San Juanico Bridge to provide shelter, basic services and emergency support.
"We remain hopeful that full transport and logistics connectivity will be restored at the soonest possible time," Tingog Rep. Jude Acidre said.
The Department of Public Works and Highways installed barriers at the 2.16-kilometer San Juanico Bridge, restricting cargo trucks and buses over 3 tons to prevent further deterioration, resulting in traffic buildup on both Leyte and Samar sides.
