CALAPAN CITY, Oriental Mindoro (PIA) -- The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has successfully distributed educational assistance amounting to P5,000.00 to each of the 1,000 students at Mindoro State University. This effort is part of the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.

The selection of Oriental Mindoro as the beneficiary of this assistance program follows a year marked by numerous challenges, including an oil spill mishap in 2023, an outbreak of African Swine Flu, and the adverse impacts of the ongoing El Niño phenomenon. These events have considerably strained the local economy and disrupted daily living in the region.

Senator Imee Marcos, who was present in the event, lauded the perseverance that Mindoreños have shown in these trying times. 

"Humahanga ako sa mga Mindoreños, sapagkat sa kabila ng iba’t-ibang sakuna na tumama sa inyong lalawigan, nananatili kayong masaya at positibo.”(I am astonished with the resilience that Mindoreños have shown, despite of the fact that numerous adversities and calamities that hit your province, you are still able to smile and remain positive)," she stated.

Following the distribution of assistance, the senator called for a press conference together with Oriental Mindoro Gov. Humerlito Bonz Dolor, and Mindoro State University President Dr. Christian Anthony C. Agutaya.

They discussed the current agricultural challenges and the strategies to mitigate the effects of the El Niño. The leaders emphasized the importance of sustainable agricultural practices and robust support systems to shield the local economy from future crises.

Dolor highlighted ongoing efforts to stabilize the province’s agriculture and electricity, which has been severely impacted by recent events.

Agutaya, meanwhile, thanked the DSWD and Marcos for their support and discussed the university’s role in fostering a resilient community. (JJGS/PIA Oriental Mindoro)