DSWD to improve storage of relief goods

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) vowed to improve its storage of prepositioned food packs after the Commission on Audit (COA) found several “deficiencies” in its handling of relief goods, with some items damaged by rodents and other pests.

COA also observed the “improper storage and inadequate monitoring of movements of prepositioned goods” across several regions.

“We acknowledge the COA findings, and we have already taken corrective measures to address these and prevent recurrence,” DSWD spokesperson and Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said, adding that the DSWD is finalizing its Warehouse Inventory Management System that will provide real-time monitoring of family food packs and other food and nonfood items.

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Regular warehouse inspections and spot-checks will also be strengthened “to ensure compliance with storage and inventory management standards,” Dumlao said. — Gillian Villanueva /das