The DSWD National Resource Operations Center (NROC) is the central hub for managing all donations and relief goods received by the DSWD.
Located in Pasay, Metro Manila, this facility serves as the primary storage and distribution center for disaster relief supplies.
The NROC is capable of producing an average of 20,000 food packs per day, a capacity that can be scaled up to 50,000 during emergencies.
The NROC’s main mission is to ensure that emergency relief supplies are always available and ready to be deployed.
It coordinates with local government units (LGUs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and legislators to distribute aid effectively.
Target beneficiaries include disaster-affected families who receive essential items through the Family Food Packs (FFPs).
Expect efficient storage, handling, and distribution of both food and non-food donations, with a well-organized system to meet immediate needs during crises.
NROC’s Role in Disaster Relief Efforts
The NROC’s primary mission is to make sure that emergency relief supplies are always available and ready to be deployed.
The center is part of the National Response and Logistics Management Bureau (NRLMB), which oversees the production, repacking, and distribution of relief goods.
During disaster response operations, the NROC coordinates with various stakeholders, including local government units (LGUs), non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and legislators, to distribute aid to affected areas.
Key Functions
- Storage and Handling: The NROC stores both food and non-food items, so that they are ready for immediate distribution when disasters strike.
- Production and Repacking: The center produces Family Food Packs (FFPs), which contain essential items for disaster-affected families.
- Distribution: The NROC coordinates the logistics of distributing relief goods, in order for them to reach the intended beneficiaries promptly.
Types of Donations Managed
The NROC handles a wide range of donations, which include:
- Food Items: Uncooked rice, canned goods, powdered milk, and other non-perishable food items.
- Non-Food Items: Used clothing, bedding, and other essential household items.
- Medicines and Medical Supplies: Various medical supplies and equipment for disaster relief.
- Educational and Cultural Materials: Books and other materials to support educational efforts during and after disasters.
- Essential Machinery and Equipment: Tools and equipment necessary for disaster response and recovery efforts.
Production Capacity
An important aspect of the NROC’s operations is its ability to produce food packs at scale.
The center’s mechanized production system allows it to produce up to 50,000 Family Food Packs daily during emergencies.
These packs are essential for providing immediate sustenance to disaster-affected families, ascertaining that they have access to essential food items.
Management and Supervision
The NROC is managed and supervised by the Administrative Service of the DSWD Central Office.
The overall direction and decision-making authority for the disposition of goods rest with the designated Undersecretary of the DSWD.
The National Operations Office (NOO) assists in rationalizing needs and allocating resources effectively.
Manpower and Support
The NROC operates with a dedicated team, including administrative officers, warehouse personnel, clerks, drivers, and utility workers.
During large-scale disaster operations, additional manpower support from other DSWD units may be deployed to handle the increased workload.
Systems and Procedures
The NROC follows a set of established systems and procedures to make sure efficient operations:
- Acquisition: All procured and donated goods are inventoried, inspected, and valued upon receipt.
- Maintenance: The center maintains a stockpile of 5,000 family packages during the rainy season and 3,000 packages during the lean months. Regular inventory checks and maintenance are conducted to confirm the readiness of supplies.
- Disposition and Utilization: Relief goods are distributed based on requests from DSWD field offices and other proponents. Strict documentation and monitoring promote transparency and accountability in the distribution process.
Volunteer Support
Volunteers play a major role in the NROC’s operations, especially during disaster response efforts.
The NRLMB oversees the management of volunteers, who assist in various tasks such as repacking relief goods, sorting donations, and providing logistical support.
Who Can Volunteer?
Eligibility Requirements
To volunteer at the NROC, individuals must meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 15 years of age (those 15-18 can only do non-hazardous, simple activities)
- Be willing to commit time, resources, and talents without material or financial remuneration
- Be willing to learn and undergo training on volunteerism and specialized skills, if needed
- Be willing to abide by the policies of the assignment/deployment areas
- Present a valid ID for identification (school, company, etc.)
- Be physically and mentally capable to do the volunteer work (may require medical certification)
- For foreigners, need clearance from PNVSCA and proof of legal stay in the Philippines
Documentation Required
Volunteers must submit the following documents:
- Letter of intent addressed to the Regional Director
- Photocopy of valid ID
- Barangay Clearance
- Letters from 2 character references
- Volunteer Registration Form (Annex C)
- Volunteer Waiver (Annex D)
- Volunteer Work Plan
- Volunteer Accomplishment Report
How to Volunteer in the National Volunteer Service Program
Individuals can register to volunteer through two methods:
- Phone-In Registration: Call the NRLMB hotline to check volunteer activity schedules and provide your details to register.
- Walk-In Registration: Go to the NROC facility in Pasay, Metro Manila and register on-site. You’ll need to go through the security protocol and attend a 30-minute volunteer orientation.
Video: DSWD-NROC repacking relief goods
DSWD relief and repacking centers work tirelessly to send aid to regions anticipating the super typhoon. With volunteers and personnel so that the assembly and distribution of food and non-food items, the DSWD is prepositioned with over a million Family Food Packs and 30,000 non-food items to support areas expected to be impacted by the storm.
Conclusion
The DSWD National Resource Operations Center (NROC) is an indispensable component of the Philippines’ disaster response system.
Through its efficient management of donations, production of relief goods, and coordination of distribution efforts, the NROC make sure that immediate aid reaches those in need during times of crisis.
By maintaining a well-stocked inventory and leveraging volunteer support, the NROC stands ready to respond swiftly and effectively to disasters, embodying the DSWD’s commitment to social welfare and development.
Contact Information
For assistance or inquiries, the DSWD National Resource Operations Center can be contacted through the following methods:
- Address: Chapel Road, Brgy. 195, Pasay City
- Phone: (02) 8511 1259
- Email: inquiry@dswd.gov.ph
- Hotlines: Globe – 09171105686 / 09178272543; Smart – 09199116200