Nearly 17,000 beneficiaries across the Bicol Region received financial assistance from the national government through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program during a simultaneous payout Wednesday.

Data from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) showed that a total of 16,941 beneficiaries were served in various payout sites. The figures include 2,527 in Masbate; 4,795 in Sorsogon City; 2,457 in Legazpi City; 1,622 in Tabaco City; 826 in Ligao City; 1,978 in Iriga City; and 2,736 in Naga City.

In Albay, DSWD project development officer Rachel Berjuega said the offsite payout follows the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to help the transport sector amid the ongoing crisis in the Middle East.

Several tricycle drivers in Legazpi City expressed gratitude for the assistance, citing rising fuel prices and daily expenses as major challenges.

Rodney Dado, a driver from Barangay East Washington, said the aid arrived at the right time for his family.

“I am happy because my child, who is on maintenance medication, was able to receive assistance. I thank God because it helped me buy rice, as prices of rice and fuel have increased,” he said.

Another driver, Willy Añonuevo, a senior citizen from Barangay Bigaa, said he would use the money to augment his daily expenses and buy gasoline.

“Thank you for giving us financial assistance because we really need it due to the rising fuel prices. This will help us,” Añonuevo said.

Hennedy Llarena, 40, assisted her 72-year-old father, Domingo Bayle, in receiving the PHP5,000 cash relief. She said the money would fund her father’s medical maintenance after he suffered a stroke last March.

To ensure an orderly process, the Philippine National Police (PNP) deployed a team of eight personnel, while the Legazpi City Public Safety Office (PSO) assigned 12 personnel to maintain security and peace during the activity. (PNA)