Legazpi city: A total of 2,378 farmers affected by the ongoing unrest of the Mayon Volcano in Albay province have received financial assistance through the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) cash-for-work (CFW) program. Each beneficiary received PHP13,050 after completing 30 days of community work, as reported by Claudio Villareal, DSWD Bicol Disaster Response Management Division chief.
According to Philippines News Agency, the program has distributed over PHP31 million across nine local government units, including Sto. Domingo, Bacacay, Camalig, Daraga, Guinobatan, Legazpi City, Ligao City, Malilipot, and Tabaco City. The CFW initiative provides temporary employment to farmers and livestock raisers whose livelihoods have been affected by restrictions within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ).
DSWD Social Welfare Officer I Kimberly Biag stated that the program continues to support internally displaced individuals unable to return to their farms due to ongoing volcanic risks. She noted that the initiative aligns with national government efforts to provide immediate relief while safety restrictions remain in place around the volcano.
Following the payout on Wednesday, beneficiaries from the northern barangays of Legazpi City expressed their gratitude, emphasizing that the funds would sustain their families and farming activities. Raymond Azagra from Barangay Mabinit highlighted the assistance's significance for his children's schooling and home repairs. Noel Gravito from Barangay Padang emphasized the support's importance in recovering livelihoods and caring for livestock.
Florenciano Azul from Barangay Bog±a plans to use the cash aid to purchase fertilizers and spraying materials for his farm. Gilberto Azupardo from Barangay Buyuan expressed his thanks to the government, noting that the funds would serve as much-needed capital for his farming operations.
The DSWD has assured continuous coordination with local officials to sustain assistance as Mayon Volcano remains under close monitoring.
