LINGAYEN, Pangasinan – Some 393 homeless families affected by the devastation of typhoon “Pepeng” have benefitted from the distribution of Shelter Repair Kit which amounted to at least P2.7 million under the Disaster Risk Mitigation Program through the Habitat for Humanity-Philippines in partnership with the province and concerned local government units.

Provincial Housing and Homesite Regulation Officer Alvin L. Bigay said the families who received R7,000 each came from the towns of Rosales, Villasis, Sison, Bayambang, and Urdaneta City, which were mostly affected by the deluge.

As this developed, Pangasinan Gov. Amado T. Espino Jr. thanked not only the Habitat team but all the organizations and individuals who extended support to the typhoon victims.

The outpouring of support from concerned citizens, according to the governor, signifies that the spirit of cooperativism or “bayanihan” among Filipinos is still alive.

Bigay said the province sought the assistance of shelter agencies to aid the homeless families after the devastation of the destructive typhoon.

Bigay noted that Pangasinan is lucky from getting a quick response from the Habitat for Humanity-Philippines.

He also disclosed that the province and non-government organizations have teamed up and conducted an ocular inspection and assessment of the damaged houses in the six heavily affected areas of Pangasinan.

While Bautista town, he added, is under re-validation.

Shelter Repair Kit assistance involves the distribution of construction materials to families whose houses were partially or totally damaged by calamities or disasters.

The kit includes roofing materials, flexiboards, lumber, nails, and other construction materials like hammer, handsaw, and screwdrivers.