LEGAZPI CITY, Dec. 17 -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development in Bicol (DSWD-5) is distributing financial assistance through its Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) program for over 12,000 families affected by Super Typhoon Uwan in the provinces of Catanduanes and Sorsogon.

In a report on Wednesday, DSWD Bicol Regional Director Norman Laurio said the ECT payout began on Monday and would continue until Dec. 18, with a total fund of more than PHP96 million.

Laurio said the assistance serves as a crucial financial lifeline for families whose homes were severely damaged by the recent storm.

In Catanduanes, a total of 3,524 families across the towns of Pandan and Caramoran will receive immediate cash aid.

In Pandan, 440 households wi...