DAVAO CITY – Some 84 families who benefited from the Balik-Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa (BP2) program in Davao Region received PHP3.3 million cash assistance, a regional official from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-11) said Tuesday.
Louis Jan Lacida, DSWD–11 social marketing officer, said the 84 family beneficiaries are now settled in Davao del Norte - Asuncion (33), Carmen (10), Sto. Tomas (19), New Corella (14), Island Garden City of Samal (2), and Panabo City (4).
Each family received PHP40,000 under the transitory family support package of the program which the beneficiaries will use to purchase grocery supplies, pay utility bills, and educational expenses, Lacida said.
"We will give another support package to the beneficiaries. Definitely, it is not the last," Lacida said in an interview.
The DSWD is a member of the Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa Council, created under Executive Order (EO) No. 114, to ensure “the whole-of-government action” on the program.
Meanwhile, Lani Cudino, DSWD-11 Kahirapan-Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) regional program coordinator, said they are continuously conducting orientations and consultations with BP2 beneficiaries all over the Davao Region.
“It is directed to orient the beneficiaries on the services of BP2, as well as their responsibilities as beneficiaries,” she said.
Cudino said BP2 services include transportation and relocation support, livelihood grant, shelter assistance, and financial aid.
The BP2 is an inter-agency program aiming to provide comprehensive services to families returning to their provinces as well as funding assistance to local government units to improve access to basic services.
It is envisioned to decongest urban poor communities in big cities with a high incidence of coronavirus disease 2019, contributing to the achievement of balanced regional development. (PNA)
