The provincial government on Thursday, July 27, 2023, distributed 556 sacks of rice donated by the Republic of Korea to the residents of the municipalities of Cateel and Boston. These residents were affected by strong winds and heavy flooding last February, which caused damage to their homes and livelihoods.
As part of the ASEAN Plus Three Emergency Rice Reserve (APTERR), Davao Oriental received 833 sacks of rice, each weighing 40 kilograms. This was provided to help the province recover from the recent damages caused by the shear line and Low-Pressure Area (LPA). Other provinces and regions in Mindanao also received similar donations.
Out of the 833 sacks of rice allocated for the three most impacted towns, 556 have already been given out. Specifically, 260 sacks were distributed to the intended beneficiaries in Boston, while another 296 sacks were given to households in Baybay Village in Cateel. The remaining 277 sacks will be distributed to identified families in Governor Generoso next week.
During the turnover ceremony, Governor Niño Sotero L. Uy Jr. expressed his gratitude to the Republic of Korea for their generosity. He emphasized that unforeseen calamities should bring people together, not divide them. Governor Uy stressed the importance of cooperation, stating that people should be there for each other and support government programs from the barangay to the provincial level. He also encouraged gratitude towards God for answering their needs and providing blessings, big or small.
Together with the Governor was the Provincial Social Welfare and Development (Office) team led by the department head Ms. Juvy Abarca, serving as the instrument and bridge to ensure that the necessary services were delivered to the people.
Each family was given one sack during the distribution. The distribution prioritized vulnerable sectors, including Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Single Parents, and Senior Citizens, in addition to the affected areas of the LPA.
The distribution event in the Municipality of Boston was attended by Mayor Rowell Rosit and the leaders of different barangays, including the Liga ng mga Barangay Provincial President Board Member Rustan Castillones. In Barangay Baybay of the Municipality of Cateel, the ceremony was attended by Muncipal Councilor Jefrey Lungay who represented Mayor Emilou Nuñez, and other officials such as Punong Barangay of Baybay Hon. Liezel Ebrano and leaders from neighboring barangays. By Mark Oliver Alvite
