Beneficiaries of the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) program in this city and nearby municipalities thanked the government for continued financial assistance to help poor and near-poor families meet their daily needs.

On Tuesday, 958 beneficiaries from Legazpi City, Camalig, Manito, and Daraga received PHP2,000 each, totaling PHP1.9 million in assistance, during the second-tranche payout for Group 2 beneficiaries at the Ibalong Centrum for Recreation here.

Of the total beneficiaries, 455 are from Legazpi City, 184 from Camalig, 91 from Manito, and 228 from Daraga. Each beneficiary received PHP2,000 in financial assistance.

Willizen Gabriel, a vendor from Barangay Baligang, Camalig, said the assistance would help cover her family’s daily expenses and support her livelihood, especially since she supports six children.

Gabriel said he plans to use the assistance for his children’s school allowance, daily expenses, and as additional capital for his livelihood.

“It is a big help because our income is not always that much. Aside from that, the continued rainy weather makes it difficult, so this is a big help to our household and our children,” he said.

Gabriel also expressed hope that the government would continue the program.

Meanwhile, Gilbert Balictar of Barangay Cawayan, Manito, said he would use the financial assistance to buy food for his family.

“I am grateful to the government for helping people who are struggling. Thank you to our President,” he said.

Gilbert, a tricycle driver, said his daily income is modest and is affected by rising fuel prices.

“I drive a tricycle. My income is only small because fuel prices are also increasing. I earn around PHP400 a day, and sometimes I do not even reach that amount,” he said.

The UPLIFT program provides financial assistance to qualified poor and near-poor beneficiaries to help address their immediate needs while supporting household livelihoods. (PNA)