TANDAG CITY, Surigao del Sur -- Some 1,000 individuals received financial assistance during the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program payout on June 18, 2023 at the Vicente T. Pimentel Jr. Memorial Gymnasium in Tandag City, Surigao del Sur.

The program alleviated the financial burdens of the beneficiaries through provision of assistance during difficult times. They were carefully selected based on their current circumstances and demonstrated need, ensuring that the support would truly reach those who needed it the most.

Moreover, the event was highlighted by guest speaker Senator Imee Marcos, who was ably represented by regional coordinator Lester Jones Suarez. Their representation further underscored the commitment and coordination of the national and regional leaders to address the needs of the most vulnerable members of society.

Provicnial Governor Alexander Pimentel and Tandag City Mayor Roxanne Pimentel attended the said activity, which fell on the fifth day of the 63rd Araw ng Surigao del Sur.

Mayor Pimentel expressed her gratitude to Senator Imee Marcos for the support and commitment to help individuals in crisis situations, and highlighted the importance of such programs in fostering social cohesion and ensuring that no one is left behind in the city's progress.

The program aims to help restore stability, improves living conditions, and offers a path towards recovery.  It also serves as a social safety net or stop-gap measure to support the recovery of individuals and families suffering from unexpected life events or crises. The provision of psychosocial intervention and/or direct financial/material assistance may enable them to meet their basic needs in the form of food, transportation, medical, educational and burial assistance. 

The AICS, through the collaborative efforts from the national level and down to the local governments units, has been instrumental in providing immediate relief to individuals on crisis situations in the country. (with a report from LGU- Tandag City/Grace Barcena, PIA-Surigao del Sur)