The provincial government of Albay will provide financial assistance to 721 barangays to enhance the social services they offer to the communities.

In an interview Wednesday, Albay Acting Governor Glenda Ong-Bongao said a total of PHP72.1 million was allocated, allowing each barangay to receive PHP100,000 in aid.

“The aid for the 721 barangays is intended to ensure that basic government services are delivered efficiently to every barangay in the province,” she said.

Bongao added that the financial assistance can be utilized for various projects aimed at preserving and enriching local culture, promoting health and safety, safeguarding the rights of residents, and fostering the development of scientific and technological capabilities.

The funds may also be directed towards promoting full employment, maintaining peace and order, and enhancing comfort and convenience for residents through improved basic services.

The distribution of the program will cover 198 barangays in the 1st District; 223 barangays in the 2nd District; and 300 barangays in the 3rd District.

“The subsidy will be allocated to the barangays and will be subject to standard budgeting, accounting, and auditing rules and regulations,” she added.

The funding for this assistance is sourced from the Aid to Barangays Program under the Office of the Governor, based on the approved Project Procurement Management Plan, Bongao said.

In a statement, Board Member Hisham Ismail, president of the Liga ng mga Barangay Albay Chapter, thanked the acting governor for the financial assistance provided to the barangays.

“This fund will significantly aid the barangays and benefit the people,” he said.

Ismail also said that with the established streamlined process, unnecessary requirements are eliminated, making the funds more accessible. (PNA)