From relief to rebuilding: Government brings long-term recovery to Jose Abad Santos

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 21, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Office of the Cabinet Secretary

PHILIPPINES – The government is shifting from immediate disaster relief to long-term recovery in earthquake- and typhoon-hit Jose Abad Santos, Davao Occidental, as Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos led a whole-of-government effort to help families rebuild their homes and livelihoods.

At least 14 government agencies brought assistance ranging from temporary shelters and cash-for-work opportunities to farm inputs, skills training, classrooms, medical services and internet connectivity.

Abalos said the initiative follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure that recovery efforts go beyond immediate aid and focus on sustainability, jobs, housing and livelihood.

Among the assistance provided were additional cash aid from the DSWD, cash-for-work opportunities from the DOLE, livelihood training from TESDA, and marketing support from the DTI.

The government also committed 100 modular shelter units, temporary classrooms, agricultural inputs, assistance for coconut farmers and continued medical and sanitation services.

Meanwhile, the DPWH is clearing roads and rivers, while the DICT has provided Starlink connectivity to selected affected communities.

For Abalos, the goal is no longer just to help communities survive the disaster—but to give families the means to rebuild and sustain their lives long after the relief operations end.