PHILIPPINE President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on Thursday pledged government assistance to families displaced by a major fire in Tondo, Manila, saying relief goods, cash aid and medical services are being distributed while longer-term housing support is being considered.

Speaking before evacuees at General Vicente Lim Elementary School, Mr. Marcos said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) had been tasked to immediately provide food, medicine, and shelter support.

He noted that cash aid was necessary, as families have different needs, particularly those with infants, young children, or elderly members.

“Once you are able to return to your homes, what we will do is look into how the government can help in rebuilding or rehabilitating your houses,” he said in Filipino.

He also visited evacuees at the Antonio Villegas Vocational High School in Tondo, while other displaced families were temporarily housed at village 105 covered court.

The DSWD distributed relief goods, including 2,235 family food packs, hygiene kits, and sleeping kits, and also served 2,000 hot meals prepared through its mobile kitchen.

Cash assistance was extended under the agency’s emergency cash transfer program, with each beneficiary receiving P15,109 for 29 days.

The fire in Happyland erupted late Sept. 13, quickly sweeping through the crowded community. — Chloe Mari A. Hufana