BULUAN, Maguindanao (PIA) – The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic did not deter the government from providing assistance to vulnerable sectors in the society.

On August 9, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Provincial Government of Maguindanao handed out financial aid to 254 individuals under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program.

Maguindanao Governor Bai Mariam Sangki-Mangudadatu said the first batch of recipients was composed of students, ustadz, habal-habal drivers and persons with disability (PWDs).

“No one should be left behind. Kahit may pandemic, we hope that through this assistance ay maramdaman ng ating mga kababayan na may gobyernong may malasakit at handang tumulong sa bawat Maguindanaon,” the governor said.

Every student scholar received a P5,000 cash assistance while others were given P3,000 each.

Aside from the cash aid, 20 PWDs also received wheelchairs from the provincial government.

According to Governor Mangudadatu, they allotted over P5 million for this program with the help of Senator Christopher “Bong” Go.

The second batch of aid distribution is scheduled next week. (PIA)