At least 2,900 low-income residents here benefited from the PHP99.7 million cash assistance distributed Wednesday by the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Davao Region (DSWD-11).

The beneficiaries received PHP3,000 each from the financial aid sourced through the DSWD’s Assistance To Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.

The AICS is part of the DSWD’s protective services for the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable or disadvantaged individuals and technical assistance to local government units and other partners.

The beneficiaries include farmers, fisherfolk, the elderly, solo parents, persons with disabilities, and other sectors that were affected by the impacts of the pandemic.

Senator Christopher Lawrence Go, along with local and national agency representatives, witnessed the distribution here of various DSWD assistance in the form of financial aid, food and grocery packs, vitamins, face masks, and face shields.

Go also handed over volleyballs, basketballs, bicycles, shoes, crutches, and mobile tablets.

In an interview, Noel Matute, a beneficiary, said the assistance would help his family as they try to navigate the impact of the pandemic and the rising fuel prices.

“During the pandemic, you can see a lot of jobless residents here. It was very hard for us,” he said.

Go, meanwhile, urged the beneficiaries to use the assistance to buy essentials for their families. He also advised them to avail of the services of the Malasakit Center.

“We have 151 Malasakit Centers all over the country. It is for the Filipino and everyone is welcome to avail of its services,” he said.

In addition, the senator reminded the beneficiaries to have themselves inoculated with coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) jabs.

“There is still a pandemic, and we need to make sure of your protection. Please help the government and have yourself vaccinated,” he said. (PNA)