Photo courtesy of Leilanie Adriano/PNA
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Ilocos Region released thousands of family food packs to households affected by continued economic strain, officials said Tuesday.
A total of 4,198 food packs were distributed to several towns and a city in Ilocos Norte as part of the government’s assistance program.
Local social welfare officials said beneficiaries came from Pagudpud, Bangui, Burgos, Pasuquin, Paoay, and Batac City.
The assistance was intended for families whose livelihoods had been affected by rising fuel costs, particularly those dependent on daily wage and transport related work.
Each family food pack was designed to sustain a household of about five members for up to two days.
Local government units in the province coordinated with national agencies to extend aid to transport workers, farmers, fishers, students, and commuters affected by fuel price fluctuations.
Separate provincial initiatives were also implemented, including fuel subsidies for tricycle drivers and farmers, with each recipient receiving Php 2,500 from local funds.
Some municipalities also deployed government vehicles and partnered with public transport operators to provide free rides during peak travel hours to ease commuting challenges.