The Manila local government has ironed out the distribution of aid for those affected by the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) implemented in the “National Capital Region Plus bubble”.
According to Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, they have already received more than P1.5B in funding from the national government to be allocated for poor families and other vulnerable sectors affected by the ECQ – which has further limited employment in some industries to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
On Facebook, Moreno said they have already been given the list of eligible beneficiaries.
The LGU will provide up to P1,000 cash aid.
It will be recalled that the LGUs have the option of giving in-kind or cash but Moreno explained that each family has their own needs and they will continue to distribute the city’s food boxes so they decided to give the money to the affected residents.
Based on Joint Memorandum Circular No. 1, Series of 2021 released by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), targets to assist the following:
- Beneficiaries of the Social Amelioration Program under the Bayanihan Act 1 and additional beneficiaries of emergency subsidy under Section 4f(3) of Bayanihan Act 2
- SAP wait-listed beneficiaries
Manila LGU releases guidelines of ECQ aid distribution
- Those belonging to vulnerable groups, such as low-income individuals living alone, Persons with Disabilities (PWD), solo parents, etc.
- Such other individuals affected by the ECQ as may be determined by the LGU provided that funds are still available
As long as they qualify, up to 4 family members can receive P1,000 each.
An estimated 380,000 families in Manila will receive assistance.
It will be recalled that the ECQ was extended by a week or more in the NCR Plus Bubble. That is, people can only go out for essential activities such as working, shopping for food, medicine, going to the hospital, and so on.
Meanwhile, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) stressed local officials should distribute the government assistance for NCR Plus residents correctly and on time.
The mayors only have 15 days to distribute the aid in cash or 30 days in kind, according to DILG Undersecretary Martin Diño.
Violators could face prosecution, he said.