By CESAR JOLITO III
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has admitted difficulty in distributing the P50 million aid released by the national government for families affected by Typhoon “Tino” in six local government units (LGUs) in the province.
“It’s very difficult to distribute this money because the amount is not enough to cover all damages,” Lacson said.
The governor said the provincial government is still deciding whether the cash assistance will prioritize totally damaged or partially damaged houses.
He explained that there are around 105,000 partially damaged houses and 13,000 totally damaged houses in the province.
“If we give P5,000 each for partially damaged houses, we can only cover about 10,000 families — that’s just 10 percent. For totally damaged houses, if we give P10,000 each, we can reach about 5,000 families, which is roughly 38 percent,” Lacson said.
“We will also consult with the mayors because those who do not receive aid immediately may complain,” he pointed out.
The plan is to prorate the aid based on reports submitted by each LGU.
“The province will handle the distribution, but the LGUs will submit the list of recipients,” Lacson said, adding that assistance will be given in cash.
‘Many cannot go back’
On housing concerns, Lacson noted the challenges faced by families who lost their homes and even the land they live on.
“Many cannot go back because their areas are destroyed, covered by boulders or designated as no-build zones. The earlier we can distribute assistance, the better,” Lacson said.
The governor also raised concerns about possible illegal logging at Kanlaon Volcano, which may have contributed to landslides and the flow of boulders and debris.
“We will coordinate with the [Department of Environment and Natural Resources] to verify if there has been illegal cutting,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development is reportedly ready to provide modular houses for evacuees, with priority for those displaced near Kanlaon.
“Land has been identified, and lots are available, though only around 80 square meters per unit,” Lacson added./CJ, WDJ