ODIONGAN, Romblon (PIA) -- A total of 350 residents of the town of Odiongan in Romblon, on Thursday, April 4 received P2,000 each from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The financial aid was part of the DSWD's Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

AICS is among the social welfare services offered by the DSWD, aimed at providing medical, burial, transportation, educational, food, or financial aid, as well as other necessary support services, to individuals or families. The program's goal is to assist poor Filipinos experiencing crises in fulfilling their essential needs.

Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, who facilitated the inclusion of Odiongan in the AICS program, was present during the aid distribution. He urged the beneficiaries to prioritize essentials such as food, medicine, or milk, ensuring that the aid serves its intended purpose effectively.

"It's not necessary to express gratitude towards me," Dela Rosa stated, emphasizing that both he and the DSWD serve as conduits for government programs designed to alleviate the burdens faced by individuals and families in distress.

Senator Dela Rosa also donated medical equipment to the Rural Health Unit of Odiongan.

In addition, he provided boxes of slippers to the Local Government of Odiongan, intended for distribution among the children of the town.

Dela Rosa during the distribution was accompanied by Odiongan Mayor Trina Firmalo-Fabic, Vice Mayor Diven Dimaala and other LGU and DSWD officials. (PJF/PIA Mimaropa - Romblon)