BALANGA CITY (PIA) -- About 300 individuals in Bataan benefited from the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), in partnership with Pusong Pinoy Partylist and Partido Balikatan ng Bataan, distributed a total of P1.2 million in financial assistance during the payout in Balanga City.

DSWD Bataan Social Welfare Officer Ruth Umipig disclosed that they distributed either P5,000 or P3,000 to each beneficiary, depending on their needs, particularly medical expenses.

“Most beneficiaries are from Balanga City, but some are from other municipalities in Bataan,” she said. Umipig also encouraged those in need to coordinate with their nearest DSWD satellite offices to enroll in the program. 

Meanwhile, beneficiaries expressed gratitude to the government for the assistance they received. Bagac resident Donato Villaflores said he would use the cash assistance for household expenses.

The AICS program functions as a crucial social safety net, offering support to individuals and families facing unexpected crises like illness, death, natural disasters, and other critical situations.

It encompasses various forms of aid including medical, burial, educational, transportation, and food assistance. (CLJD/RPQ-PIA 3)