At least 17k individuals received Php 5,000 from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Field Office 7 – Central Visayas during the “Handog ng Pangulo: Serbisyong Sapat Para sa Lahat” on September 13, 2024.

DSWD distributed the cash aid in eighteen payout sites through the Ayuda sa Kapos Ang Kita Program (AKAP), which targets low-income or minimum-wage earners.

In Cebu, barangays in Banilad, Sawang Calero, and Pahina Central served as payout sites for Cebu City, as well as other areas in Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City, Minglanilla, Argao, Pinamungajan, San Remigio, Liloan, Consolacion, and Ronda. Tagbilaran City, Trinidad, and Candijay in Bohol; Guihulngan City, Dumaguete City, and Santa Catalina in Negros Oriental; and Siquijor also had a simultaneous payout.

Beneficiaries were identified by LGUs and assessed by DSWD during the caravan.

Regional Director Shalaine Marie S. Lucero said that the payout is one way to reach more people. “We are thankful to the President for organizing these nationwide caravans. At DSWD, we are always here to support the initiatives of our partners and directives of the President for the welfare of the Filipino people,” she said.

Lucero added that the purpose of the cash aid is to help families with their basic needs and support their children’s education, especially in the challenges of rising inflation.

In Ronda, a beneficiary is grateful for the aid and greeted the President on his birthday.

 “Salamat kaayo Mr. President sa imung hinabang nga among nadawat mga kabos, pareho nako na driver lamang sa sikad. Happy Birthday diha Mr. President,” said Rizaldo P. Omaba, a tricycle who plans to use the cash in helping his children’s school needs and other basic household needs.

No fixers allowed

With over 17k beneficiaries who received the assistance, Director Lucero did not discount others who might take advantage of this.

She reminded the public that the money received is solely for them, and DSWD does not allow individuals to take a portion of their cash received.

“There have been reports of fixing the kaltas-ayuda in our region and outside, which affected vulnerable sectors. We do not allow these kinds of transactions by giving commissions, percentages, or tips to other people,” the director reminded. ###

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