DSWD opens mobile kitchens, water tankers for faster disaster response

By Jose Cielito Reganit, Philippine News Agency

DISASTER READY. Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian (right) and Senator Joel Villanueva inspect the features of the agency’s new mobile kitchen during the ceremonial launch at the National Resource Operations Center in Pasay City on Friday (Feb. 7, 2025). The DSWD launched 15 mobile kitchens, two mobile water treatment units, two water tanker trucks, one reach truck, and two forklifts, designed to improve the agency’s capacity to deliver immediate aid to disaster-affected communities. (Photo: Department of Social Welfare and Development – DSWD/Facebook)

MANILA – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has bolstered its disaster response efforts following the launch of its mobile kitchens, water tanker trucks, and other critical logistics equipment aimed at delivering swift aid to affected communities.

DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Senator Joel Villanueva and United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) Country Director Regis Chapman led the ceremonial launch of the new disaster response vehicles on Friday at the National Resource Operations Center (NROC) in Pasay City.

The new vehicles and equipment include 15 mobile kitchens, two mobile water treatment units, two water tanker trucks, one reach truck, and two forklifts – all designed to improve the agency’s capabilities to quickly attend to the needs of communities struck by calamities.

“These mobile kitchens, water tanks, and other equipment are part of DSWD’s new initiatives to ensure that affected families receive appropriate and quality services. With these additional resources, the DSWD can respond more swiftly and efficiently to communities in need,” Gatchalian said.

The mobile kitchens, mounted on 4×4 six-wheeler trucks, are equipped with a generator, freezer, tabletop oven, four heavy-duty single-burner gas stoves, 200-liter stainless steel water tank, complete kitchen tools and utensils, and stainless sink with grease tarp.

These can serve at least 500 individuals per meal, ensuring that evacuees receive proper nourishment during their long stay in evacuation centers.

These would also be beneficial to those in geographically isolated and disadvantaged (GIDA) areas, especially 4th and 5th class municipalities during disasters, as well as stranded passengers in major ports and airports and other areas during disasters.

These will be delivered to the different Field Offices of the DSWD, excluding Metro Manila as the region already has a mobile kitchen previously donated by the WFP.

Meanwhile, the mobile water treatment and water tanker trucks are designed to transport large quantities of potable water to evacuation centers or areas affected by water shortages to reduce the risk of waterborne diseases.

On the other hand, the forklifts and reach trucks will greatly help in speeding up repacking and prepositioning of family food packs.

This latest batch of equipment forms part of DSWD’s broader logistics capacity-building efforts, with Villanueva securing funding for the initiative under the General Appropriations Act (GAA).

Gatchalian thanked Villanueva and other partners for their continued support in strengthening the department’s disaster response efforts.

Vital

Villanueva, meanwhile, underscored the importance of strengthening the DSWD’s disaster response capacity.

“The key to effective disaster response is equipping our agencies with the necessary tools and technology. We need to ensure that displaced families receive hot meals and clean water from pre-evacuation to post-disaster recovery,” he said.

The fund for the acquisition of the equipment was included in the 2024 national budget through Villanueva’s initiative.

“We’re very happy and proud with this development and I think unti-unti yung mga kasamahan natin sa lehislatura nakikita nila na ito yung mga magagandang proyekto na dapat pagtuunan ng pansin (our colleagues in the legislature see the importance of these good projects that should be prioritized),” Villanueva added.

Gatchalian also highlighted the significance of such initiatives in improving the agency’s efficiency in disaster-stricken areas, and expressed gratitude for Villanueva’s continued support.

“With these additional resources, the DSWD can respond more swiftly and efficiently to communities in need,” Gatchalian said.

In 2024, the agency received 16 mobile command center vehicles, 12 delivery trucks, and 13 forklifts through the funding from the national government as part of the commitment to proactive disaster management, ensuring that essential relief reaches affected families without delay. (with report from Wilnard Bacelonia/PNA)