Iriga city: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 5 in Bicol has provided financial assistance to 10 vendors impacted by a fire that destroyed a public market in Iriga City, Camarines Sur on July 11.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD-5 Director Norman Laurio stated that nine vendors whose stores were completely destroyed received PHP10,000 each in cash aid, while the owner of a store that sustained damage received PHP5,000. In addition to the financial aid, family food packs were distributed to the fire victims.

Laurio emphasized that the assistance is designed to help the vendors overcome the financial challenges posed by the loss of their primary source of income. Domingo Lamud Jr., a 40-year-old store owner, expressed his gratitude to the DSWD, highlighting that the support extended beyond just financial help. "I am very grateful to the DSWD for the financial assistance I received. This help is invaluable for the fire victims, especially for my family. We can use this support to start over and get back on our feet," he said.

Laurio also mentioned that all 10 affected vendors will undergo assessment for possible livelihood assistance as part of the agency's Sustainable Livelihood Program.