The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) 5 (Bicol) has extended financial assistance to 10 vendors impacted by a fire that devastated a public market in Iriga City, Camarines Sur, on July 11.
DSWD-5 Director Norman Laurio reported that nine vendors whose stores were completely destroyed received PHP 10,000 in cash each, while the owner of a store that sustained damage was granted PHP 5,000. In addition to the cash assistance, family food packs were also distributed to the fire victims.
Laurio emphasized that the assistance aims to help the vendors recover from the financial burden of losing their primary source of income. Domingo Lamud Jr., a 40-year-old store owner, expressed his gratitude to the DSWD, highlighting that the support provided was more than just financial aid.
“I am very grateful to the DSWD for the financial assistance I received. This help is invaluable for the fire victims, especially for my family. We can use this support to start over and get back on our feet,” Lamud stated.
Laurio further mentioned that all 10 affected vendors would undergo assessment for potential livelihood assistance under the agency’s Sustainable Livelihood Program, ensuring continued support for their recovery and future endeavors.
