CONTINUING AID. The provincial government of Benguet extended PHP21.35 million worth of assistance under its localized Assistance to Individuals in Crisis program in 2023. This benefited 1,961 individuals, who received medical and burial assistance, and another 37 who received shelter assistance for their calamities-damaged homes. (PNA file photo by Liza T. Agoot)
BAGUIO CITY – Around PHP21.35 million worth of assistance were provided to around 1,998 patients and underprivileged Benguet residents who faced monetary challenges in 2023.
According to the yearend report of the Provincial Social Work and Development Office (PSWDO), around 1,961 individuals received medical and burial assistance while 37 families were provided emergency shelter assistance for their calamity-damaged homes under the localized Assistance to Individuals in Crisis (AICs).
Benguet provincial information officer Silverio Pilo told the Philippine News Agency on Wednesday that around PHP20.95 million was used for medical and burial aid while PHP405,000 was distributed in the form of shelter assistance.
“This is part of the commitment of the Governor (Melchor Diclas) in supporting the indigents,” he said.
Pilo said the provincial government, through the assistance from the office of Benguet Lone District Rep. Erip Yap, increased the cash aid for patients undergoing dialysis, chemotherapy, and those who undergo heart operation from PHP5,000 to not more than PHP20,000.
Heart operation is currently also being done at the provincial government-managed Benguet General Hospital (BeGH), helping the patients cut on the cost compared to traveling to Metro Manila to avail of the service.
“The collaboration between the provincial government and Congressman Yap helped in ensuring the provision of assistance to more indigent individuals of our province,” Pilo added. (PNA)
