Davao City provides food, jobs, and aid during pandemic

Davao City implemented various interventions to support its residents during the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on food security, financial assistance, and educational support.

The city government launched four main food programs, including direct food rations, an agri-food program, 'hot meals on wheels,' and barangay rice distribution, to ensure daily sustenance for affected families.

Beyond food aid, the city partnered with the national government's TUPAD program to provide temporary employment for displaced workers, particularly public utility vehicle drivers.

Mayor Sara Duterte introduced the 'Work for Davao' and 'Eskwela Davao' programs during the general community quarantine, offering daily wages to displaced workers and educational assistance to schoolchildren.

The 'Work for Davao' program provided PHP396 daily to 42,915 workers displaced by business closures until December 7.

Restrictions like the issuance of Food and Medicine (FM) passes and barangay clustering were implemented to limit public movement and contain the virus spread.

Barangay officials and residents expressed appreciation for the local government's response, describing it as 'no one left behind' and acknowledging the sufficiency of services provided.

PUJ driver Teodor Alicom shared his relief in availing the TUPAD program, which helped him provide for his family after transport operations were halted.

Street vendor Adelaida Larsuma understood the necessity of the restrictions despite their impact on her business, stating that compliance was for the greater good.

Dabawenyos are described as disciplined for their adherence to protocols, which is considered a significant asset in combating the disease.