San fernando: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. recently led the distribution of emergency cash aid and family food packs to 800 families affected by Typhoon Emong, alongside fuel assistance cards to 275 farmers in La Union.
According to Philippines News Agency, all families impacted by the typhoon in July received PHP10,179 each under the Department of Social Welfare and Development's Emergency Cash Transfer program in the Ilocos Region. Additional validated beneficiaries are expected to receive similar assistance in the coming weeks. During the distribution event in San Fernando City, Marcos emphasized the importance of ensuring that all intended aid reaches the victims, highlighting the role of DSWD in distributing relief goods and health kits to support affected families.
In conjunction with the cash aid, 275 farmer-beneficiaries were provided with PHP3,000 in fuel cash cards. The Department of Agriculture facilitated the distribution of these fuel assistance cards, along with fertilizers and seeds to support farmers in replacing destroyed crops. Marcos underscored the government's commitment to providing further assistance, referencing the PHP195 billion savings from the Department of Public Works and Highways' funds.
Marcos revealed that nearly PHP36 billion from these savings will be allocated to DSWD programs such as the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation and the Sustainable Livelihood Program. He acknowledged that while this may not suffice, the government is committed to supporting the resilient and hardworking Filipino populace.
In addition to the aid distribution, Marcos also visited the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center and the PhilHealth YAKAP caravan at San Agustin (Poro) Elementary School. The caravan offered free medical consultations and services to approximately 300 pupils, teachers, parents, and guardians.
