DSWD distributes P17M aid to 1,600 volcano-affected families

On Saturday, June 15, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) distributed P17 million in cash assistance to nearly 1,600 families affected by the Kanlaon Volcano eruption in Negros Occidental.

First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and Secretary Rex Gatchalian were present at the aid distribution where recipients received PHP10,000 each along with hygiene kits, sleeping kits, family kits, and food packs.

A total of 1,386 families in La Castellana and 193 in Bago City received assistance under the DSWD Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

The distribution included PHP15.79 million in cash assistance and PHP1.201 million worth of relief goods such as hygiene kits, sleeping kits, family kits, and food packs.

Close to 800 families within the four-kilometer permanent danger zone remain in evacuation centers, while DSWD continues to provide technical support and resource augmentation to affected localities.