At DSWD, we value our partnership with our counterparts in the local government units. And like all partnerships, communication plays a very vital role.
Recently, the Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD) invited its partners in the LGU, including the Local Chief Executives (LCEs), the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Officers (MSWDOs) and the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officers (MDRRMOs) to a consultative dialogue.
This dialogue was held at Tolosa, Leyte to discuss the different roles, responsibilities and the disaster response projects of DSWD and to listen to suggestions, comments and feedback from our partners on the ground.
DRMB Division Chief Rey Martija discussed DSWD’s role during disasters, including the preparation of food and non-food items before disasters. He also discussed DSWD’s different projects for disaster response such as the Emergency Shelter Assistance (ESA), Core Shelter Assistance Project – Modified Shelter Assistance Project (CSAP-MSAP), and the Cash-For-Work (CFW) program.
Of course, communication is a two-way street.
DSWD listened to its partners at the LGU for complaints, issues and concerns with the disaster response programs. These issues include the lengthy process for the release of ESA, the exact definition of partially and totally damaged houses, and complaints that barangay officials and other politicians only select friends and relatives to be eligible for ESA or relief distribution. The participants also offered suggestions, such as stress debriefing and care for the disaster responders, the use of advanced technology, an equal rate for both partially and totally damaged houses and blanket distribution to all affected regardless of income.
According to Martija, this input will enable DSWD to enhance our policies and to address problems, issues and concerns with DSWD’s disaster response programs. DSWD noted these concerns and will use this information to improve its programs accordingly.