BNPB confirms earthquake aid in East Manggarai distributed in stages

The National Disaster Management Agency (BNPB) has confirmed that aid for residents affected by the earthquake in East Manggarai Regency, East Nusa Tenggara (NTT), is being distributed in stages.

Acting Head of the BNPB Data, Information and Disaster Communication Centre, Berton SP Panjaitan, said during a press conference monitored in Jakarta on Saturday that the staged distribution was due to geographical challenges and limited transport options.

Berton made the statement in response to reports that the aid received by the BNPB person in charge (PIC) in East Manggarai Regency did not match the official handover record.

“Reports circulating in the community that the BNPB PIC in East Manggarai Regency handed over an amount of aid that did not match the official record are untrue. The amount of aid at the time of the incident was only partial and was still in the process of being delivered in stages,” he said.

“Our PIC was present in North Lamba Leda District only to provide assistance and monitor the distribution of logistics to affected residents, while the delivery of goods is the responsibility of the East Manggarai Regency command post,” he added.

On the same occasion, Berton said that BNPB urged all relevant parties to maintain coordination in handling affected residents, including in the distribution of aid and the fulfilment of basic needs.

In addition, BNPB also reminded all personnel and volunteers serving in the field to pay attention to their health and safety while carrying out their duties.

Beyond logistics distribution, Berton continued, the government also appreciated the support and collaboration of various parties, including academics and medical personnel who provided health services to affected residents.