Abuyog Provides Priority Aid to 500 Families as it Recovers from Typhoon Tino

Posted on Mar. 31, 2026 at 9:16 am

ABUYOG, Leyte — Thousands of families in Abuyog are receiving financial aid from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to aid in the recovery efforts following the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino in November last year.

Mayor Lemuel Gin Traya announced that starting on March 18, around 12,000 households identified as partially affected will receive cash aid, with 500 families whose homes were destroyed being given priority in the distribution. The distribution will take place over five days, concluding on March 22.

Mayor Traya emphasized that while the assistance may not cover all the expenses of repairing damaged homes, it serves as a vital support for families who lost roofs, walls, and basic shelter during the storm.

“This assistance is not the ultimate solution, but it is a starting point. It gives our people something to rebuild with,” he stated, recognizing that many residents are still facing challenges in the aftermath of the typhoon.

According to reports from the local government, over 500 houses were destroyed, with thousands more suffering partial damage. Many families are still in temporary shelters or relying on relatives as recovery efforts continue.

To ensure an organized distribution process, barangay officials have worked together with the municipal government to create a structured payout schedule. Beneficiaries are advised to coordinate closely with their barangay leaders to avoid confusion and overcrowding.

Mayor Traya clarified that the cash aid will be distributed by DSWD personnel to ensure security and proper allocation, rather than being managed directly by barangay offices.

Alongside immediate relief, the local government is preparing long-term recovery programs, including housing rehabilitation and improved disaster preparedness measures.

Officials stressed the importance of resilient infrastructure and effective emergency response systems based on the lessons learned from Bagyong Tino.

For residents, the upcoming distribution represents more than just financial support; it signifies that aid is reaching the grassroots level and that the recovery process, though gradual, is moving forward.

Local leaders are hopeful that continued government assistance and community resilience will restore both homes and livelihoods impacted by the typhoon. — with report from Rialin Lauderes, NwSSU Intern

(Photo courtesy: LGU Abuyog)