The government has issued guidelines for the distribution of ayuda or assistance to Filipino indigent families affected by the ECQ or lockdown in the Greater Manila Area.
Budget Sec. Wendel Avisado earlier said nearly P23 billion was set aside for the aid which would benefit Filipinos in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Laguna, Cavite, and Rizal.
Here's what you should know about the aid distribution based on joint guidelines issued by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government:
Who is qualified for ayuda?
The following are priority target beneficiaries of the assistance:
- low-income individuals and those working in informal economies who were beneficiaries of the first tranche of the Social Amelioration Program
- beneficiaries of the second tranche of the Social Amelioration Program
- wait-listed beneficiaries of the second tranche of the Social Amelioration Program
- those belonging to vulnerable groups such as low-income individuals living alone, persons with disabilities (PWD), solo parents, and the like
- other individuals who will be deemed eligible by their respective local government units based on the availability of funds
How much is the ayuda?
Each person can receive P1,000 and not more than P4,000 per family. If there are more than four members in the family, the financial aid will still be capped at P4,000 according to the DSWD.
How will I know if I'm qualified for ayuda?
Local government units are required to post a list of approved aid beneficiaries on their official website, social media accounts, and in public areas in different barangays.
Who will distribute the ayuda?
Local government units in the Greater Manila Area or NCR Plus are the ones in charge of aid distribution. An executive order detailing the process of aid distribution is also needed prior to actual distribution, the DSWD said.
When is the distribution of ayuda?
If the aid is to be distributed in cash, it should be given within 15 days from the issuance of the Notice of Cash Allocation. If the aid will be distributed in-kind, it should be distributed within 30 days.
Who will handle complaints about the ayuda?
The DSWD said LGUs would form their respective Grievance and Appeals Committee to respond to complaints and questions about the distribution of aid. Barangays can also form similar committees if needed.
