LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) here is closely monitoring the situation in flooded Camarines Norte towns as it accordingly coordinates with the respective local government units to assure ample supply of food and other basic necessities for the victims.

        DSWD-Bicol Information Officer Evelyn Jerusalem said there is a need to sustain the relief distribution, management of evacuation centers and prompt tie-up with other agencies such as the Department of Health and volunteer organizations to help the residents cope in the aftermath of the calamity.

        As reported by the Social Welfare and Development (SAWD) Team of Camarines Norte, 8,988 families composed of 38,819 individuals have remained affected, of which 58 families were rendered homeless.

        The number of persons who returned to the evacuation centers have increased from 18,210 to 23, 770, the DSWD said Wednesday.

        As of latest count, ten persons were reported missing while two were confirmed dead and three others injured.

        With the continuous heavy rains, the nine municipalities consisting of 144 barangays are on their toes for any possible worst scenario. Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the heavy rains were brought about by the tailend of the cold front that is hitting the country.