Legazpi city: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has disbursed PHP4.47 million in emergency cash assistance to 437 farmers in Legazpi City affected by the ongoing unrest of Mayon Volcano. Each farmer received PHP10,230 under the Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) program, as confirmed by Francia Domino, administrative aide of the DSWD Disaster Response Management Division.
According to Philippines News Agency, the beneficiaries are residents of the villages of Mabinit, Bog±a, Matanag, Buyuan, Padang, and Pinaric. The cash distribution in Legazpi City coincided with similar efforts in the municipalities of Daraga and Guinobatan. Domino explained that the ECT program is specifically designed to aid families impacted by the volcanic activity, with a focus on supporting local farmers.
Many recipients expressed how the financial aid would help them recover from the losses incurred due to ashfall and the disruption of farming activities. Darwin Nu±ez, a farmer from Barangay Bog±a, mentioned that the cash assistance would enable him to purchase fertilizer and other necessary farm inputs for the upcoming planting season.
Flory Llorera from Barangay Mabinit highlighted that the aid would assist her family in managing daily expenses, as their income has significantly decreased due to crop damage and the challenges posed by the volcanic situation. Clarito Bera±a Jr. of Barangay Buyuan noted that part of the assistance would be allocated for house repairs and school-related expenses.
Serafin Selfides, a 73-year-old farmer from Barangay Matanag, plans to use the funds to purchase a sprayer to enhance his farming activities. Meanwhile, Isidro Santander Jr. of Barangay Padang expressed gratitude for the swift support provided to affected farmers, emphasizing its importance for their farming operations.
This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to offer continued support to communities impacted by Mayon Volcano's ongoing unrest, ensuring they have the resources needed to sustain their livelihoods during this challenging period.
