Bulog Sulteng Delivers Food Aid to Earthquake Victims

Palu (ANTARA) - State logistics agency Perum Bulog’s Central Sulawesi Regional Office has distributed food aid to ease the burden on residents affected by the earthquake in Sigi Regency. “The logistics we distributed are donations from Bulog Central Sulawesi employees, as part of our concern in a humanitarian mission,” said Central Sulawesi Bulog Regional Head Jusri in Palu on Thursday. He explained that in emergency conditions, food logistics are crucial for the affected community, prompting the agency to take the initiative to distribute 80 sacks of rice, each in five-kilogramme packaging. “Including cooking oil and granulated sugar, with the hope that this assistance can ease the burden of disaster victims,” he said. He noted that Bulog is also currently carrying out food aid distribution activities for underprivileged residents in Sigi Regency, with each beneficiary receiving 20 kilogrammes of rice per month. The sub-districts of Nokilalaki and Palolo are included in the programme’s targets. Therefore, it is hoped that the food aid programme can also help meet the logistical needs of the affected community. “Specifically for disaster relief assignments, we are awaiting coordination between the National Food Agency and the local government,” Jusri stated. Meanwhile, Sigi Deputy Regent Samuel Pongi said that since the second day after the earthquake, logistical aid from various parties has begun arriving, including food, clean water, tents, and other necessities. “We thank all parties who have participated in easing the burden of disaster victims,” he said. As of the third day after the earthquake, the emergency response task force continues to accelerate handling efforts, from logistics distribution and clearing building debris to providing medical services to the community. Based on Regional Disaster Management Agency data as of 18 June, the number of affected residents in Sigi has reached 2,109 families or 6,412 individuals, while 84 public facilities such as schools, places of worship, government offices, community health centres, and clean water networks have suffered damage. Additionally, the number of damaged houses has increased to 1,652 units, comprising 1,472 lightly damaged, 111 moderately damaged, and 69 heavily damaged units spread across 38 villages.