DSWD distributes cash aid to 2,500 Butuanons during LegisHear
By NiΓ±a Jonalyn B. Gambe-Diamante
BUTUAN CITY (PIA) — In a bid to ease the burden of families struggling with the ongoing economic crisis, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Caraga distributed P3,000 cash assistance each to around 2,500 beneficiaries from various barangays in Butuan City during the LegisHear program held on August 7–8 at the Caraga State University gymnasium.
The financial aid, coursed through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program, was extended to indigent families and vulnerable sectors, including senior citizens and persons with disabilities.
The distribution formed part of the LegisHear, a nationwide initiative of the House of Representatives that combines legislative consultation with direct service delivery.
The LegisHear program, initiated by the House of Representatives, is more than just a legislative consultation. It is designed to serve as a one-stop shop for citizens, bringing together government agencies in one venue to provide services and conduct policy dialogues.
During the Butuan leg, agencies such as DSWD, DOH, TESDA, and others joined forces to deliver assistance ranging from financial subsidies and medical services to livelihood support and skills training. This setup allowed residents not only to receive aid but also to directly raise concerns and recommendations to lawmakers, ensuring that governance is both participatory and responsive.
For many Butuanons, the cash assistance was a crucial relief.
Vivian Antiporta, a mother from Barangay Baan 3, shared her struggles of juggling two jobs—selling vegetables and doing laundry—to support her family.
“It’s hard to take on different jobs to earn a living for my family, which is why I am very thankful for the P3,000 subsidy that we received today from DSWD. This amount is already my income for several days. So now, I am excited to buy food and the other needs of my family with this money,” Antiporta said.
Mary Fe Hiangan, another recipient, commended the organized distribution.
“The [payout] process was very smooth and took us just a reasonable amount of time. The staff were also very approachable and were responsive to our needs. Thank you, DSWD, for the cash assistance. With this, I will be able to provide for the educational needs of my children,” she shared.
For the 2,500 beneficiaries, the P3,000 cash aid was more than just financial support—it was a tangible sign of government presence and commitment to easing the burdens of vulnerable families. (NJGD, PIA Caraga with a report from DSWD Caraga)
