Manila, Aug. 21 -- Cabinet Secretary Benhur Abalos led government agencies on Friday in providing assistance to disaster-hit Jose Abad Santos in Davao Occidental, following President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to ensure the town's long-term recovery.

At least 14 agencies delivered various assistance and services, including temporary shelters, cash-for-work opportunities, farm inputs, skills training, classrooms, medical services, and internet connectivity.

Abalos said Marcos ordered a whole-of-government approach to speed up recovery for disaster-hit families as they rebuild their homes and livelihoods.

"Kung titingnan ninyo, ito na 'yung sustainability. Kasi nagawa na 'yon (If you look at it, this is now about sustainability ...