The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office V – Bicol Region swiftly responded to a tragic domestic violence-related arson incident in Baras, Catanduanes, reaffirming its commitment to protect vulnerable families and uphold the dignity of every Bicolano.
At around 11:00 p.m. on September 4, a fire broke out in a barangay in Baras, allegedly started by the head of the household during a domestic altercation. The suspect, reportedly intoxicated at the time, was arrested by local authorities and is currently in custody facing arson charges.
The affected family, beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), lost their home entirely and are now temporarily staying with relatives.
Upon receiving the report, DSWD Bicol Regional Director Norman S. Laurio immediately mobilized the Angels in Red Vests to provide immediate relief and support to the displaced family.
The DSWD Bicol, through its Disaster Response Management Division (DRMD), delivered three (3) family food packs worth ₱2,827.08 to meet their urgent needs. Meanwhile, the Crisis Intervention Section (CIS) – Catanduanes extended ₱10,000 in financial assistance under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program to cover their basic needs and daily subsistence.
To help the family recover from the emotional distress caused by the devastating incident, a DSWD social worker also conducted Psychosocial First Aid (PFA).
“𝗡𝗼 𝗧𝗼 𝗗𝗼𝗺𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗰 𝗩𝗶𝗼𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗗𝗦𝗪𝗗 𝗕𝗶𝗰𝗼𝗹”
In a statement, RD Norman Laurio strongly condemned the incident, emphasizing the agency’s unwavering stance against any form of abuse.
“DSWD Bicol stands united against domestic violence. Every family – every Bicolano – deserved to live in safety, dignity and respect, free from fear and abuse,” said Laurio.
He also assured the public that the agency would continue to monitor the case and extend the necessary support to the victims.
“The agency will ensure continuous monitoring of this case and provide all necessary assistance. We call for justice and protection for those affected,” he added.
The Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) of Baras, in coordination with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), Philippine National Police (PNP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), is working to ensure the safety and recovery of the affected family.
This comprehensive response is in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to ensure that no Filipino family is left behind during times of crisis and violence.
DSWD, led by Secretary Rex Gatchalian, ensures the swift delivery of compassionate, efficient, and sincere public service to the Filipinos in need.