By Mariela Angella Oladive
Around 1,200 Iloilo City residents received cash assistance totaling PHP6 million in a distribution event held on June 13 at Gaisano City, Lapaz, Iloilo City.
The aid, sourced from the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), was facilitated through the office of Lone District Rep. Julienne “Jam-Jam” Baronda.
It covered burial, medical, educational, hospital, medicine, and food assistance for beneficiaries from different barangays of the city.
“Since 2019, we have consistently strived to address the needs of every Ilonggo. From then until now, whenever there is a problem, our LOVE is always there,” said Rep. Baronda.
Among the beneficiaries was Almey Davasol, who expressed deep gratitude for the assistance received.
She recounted the financial strain her family faced due to medical expenses, including a costly heart operation at West Visayas Medical Center (WVMC) that was made possible through Baronda’s support.
“The assistance was a huge help since my husband is the only one working. The operation last time cost more than P1 million, and we were hopeless because our child couldn’t undergo surgery without it. But with this help, our child’s life was extended,” she shared emotionally.
“Thank you for helping us, the poor, without discrimination. May your advocacy continue,” Davasol added.
