Jakarta, June 18 -- The Ministry of Social Affairs has so far mobilized Rp4.8 billion (around US$293.6 million) to fund assistance and response services for residents affected by the eruptions of Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki.

Speaking in Jakarta on Wednesday, Social Affairs Minister Saifullah Yusuf said that the figure reflects the total assistance provided since the volcano, which is located in East Flores district, East Nusa Tenggara, began erupting in November last year.

He informed that following the latest eruption on Tuesday, his ministry is focusing on setting up shelters and tents, as well as distributing meals through seven public kitchens in affected villages, including Konga, Bokang, Lawulaga, Ilikirot, and Kanada.

"Our public k...