DSWD-6 endorses city’s request for extension of cash aid release

By Jennifer P. Rendon

The August 15, 2021 deadline might not be feasible for the Iloilo City government to complete its distribution of the special Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS).

The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Field Office VI (DSWD-6) confirmed that it has already endorsed the city government’s proposal to extend the deadline.

DSWD-6 regional director Ma. Evelyn Macapobre said that the matter has already been elevated to the DSWD head office.

Macapobre also assured that a feedback will immediately be communicated.

“Over the years, DSWD has always been receptive to the LGUs because they are our partners. We are also considering current health protocols that have to be observed. At the end of the day, we want everyone to have food on their tables and survive the pandemic,” Macapobre said.

DSWD has transferred P2.6 billion for the implementation of special AICS in the city and province of lloilo on July 29 to 30, 2021.

The special AICS was given to all local government units placed under the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).

The AICS aims to benefit 665,561 families.

In lloilo City alone, 115,436 families will benefit from the P461 million stimulus package.

As of Tuesday, the DSWD-6 said 242,939 families in the city and province of Iloilo received their cash aid amounting to P770.166 million.

The number accounted for about 28.39 percent of the target beneficiaries.

DSWD-6 also asked for additional family food packs (FFPs) upon request of the city government.

The FFPs are given as part of resource augmentation role of DSWD to LGUs.

In a letter addressed to DSWD Undersecretary Felicisimo Budiongan, head of the DSWD Disaster Response Management Bureau (DRMB), a total of 100,000 family food packs for Region 6 was requested.

The number includes the expressed need of the city.

“We acknowledge the need of the city and the neighboring provinces and as long as we have available supply, we will augment their resources,” Macapobre said.