Bangsamoro MSSD Launches Sustained Humanitarian Response for Tawi-Tawi Fire Victims
The Bangsamoro Ministry of Social Services and Development (MSSD), through its provincial office in Tawi-Tawi, has initiated a comprehensive and sustained humanitarian response following a devastating fire that displaced approximately 1,000 families in Lamion village, Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, on February 3, 2026. This swift action aims to address the urgent needs of the affected communities in the aftermath of the tragedy.
Immediate Relief and Essential Supplies
Belinda Adil, the MSSD Tawi-Tawi provincial director, reported that immediate assistance was provided to families in various evacuation sites. The initial relief efforts included the distribution of critical items such as sleeping kits, cleaning kits, tarpaulins, biscuits, and bottled water. These supplies are essential for ensuring the basic comfort and hygiene of the displaced individuals during this challenging period.
Comprehensive Assessment and Tracking
As part of its ongoing response, the MSSD conducted thorough profiling, assessment, and response tracking for internally displaced persons (IDPs). This meticulous process is designed to ensure that all affected families are properly accounted for and that appropriate interventions are identified and implemented. The goal is to provide targeted support that meets the specific needs of each household.
Expanded Evacuation Support
To accommodate the displaced families, an additional evacuation site was opened in Tubig Boh village, Bongao. Each family at this site received sleeping kits, cleaning kits, and other essential items. Furthermore, community kitchens were established in most evacuation centers, providing hot, ready-to-eat meals to evacuees. Adil emphasized the importance of this service, noting that many evacuees currently lack the ability to cook for themselves.
Continued Assistance and Collaboration
Adil stated that the MSSD will continue to provide hot meals and ensure that other needs of the evacuees are addressed. She highlighted the collaboration with the MSSD regional office and other agencies of the Bangsamoro Government, which have sent additional resources and supplies to bolster the relief efforts. This coordinated approach aims to deliver sustained support until the affected families can recover and rebuild.
Impact of the Fire
The fire, which lasted for four hours, destroyed around 1,000 houses on stilts, mostly constructed from light materials. This disaster has displaced approximately 5,000 individuals in Lamion, a coastal village in Bongao. The MSSD's humanitarian response is crucial in mitigating the impact of this tragedy and supporting the community through recovery.
