DAGUPAN CITY—The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has allocated PHP10 million in cash assistance to 5,000 Dagupan residents through its Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program. The financial aid was distributed to those impacted by the floods following Severe Tropical Storm Enteng, which affected parts of Luzon and the Visayas from September 1 to 4.
According to Philippines News Agency, Senator Imee Marcos, who chairs the Senate Committee on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development, emphasized that this aid represents the national government’s commitment to supporting residents in crisis. During the distribution event, she addressed the economic and climatic hardships facing the community, highlighting the extended rainy season’s impact on daily life and the economy. She assured the attendees of the government’s ongoing support.
Beneficiaries of the program, like Hazel de Guzman from Barangay Mamalingling, expressed their gratitude, noting the significant help the aid provides in meeting basic needs such as food and healthcare, especially during times when earning income becomes more challenging due to natural disasters. The AICS program is designed as a social safety net to aid recovery from unexpected life events or crises, providing temporary financial support to those most vulnerable.
The DSWD-Ilocos regional office reported that food aid is the most requested form of assistance under the AICS, with 65,809 requests for food assistance and 43,731 for medical aid recorded from 2022 to June 10, 2024. The agency also offers support for educational, burial, transportation, and other needs, although specific figures for these requests were not disclosed.