Bulacan Gov. Daniel R. Fernando and Vice Gov. Alexis C. Castro led the "Pamaskong Handog" program for the underweight children and their parents at the Capitol Gymnasium in the City of Malolos, Bulacan on Tuesday, Dec. 20.
The two local government leaders were joined by the Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office headed by Rowena Joson Tiongson in holding the activity.
The parents were given P500 each from Fernando while the 100 underweight children received P200 each from Castro.
Aside from cash gifts, the parents and the kids were also given bags of groceries with spaghetti set from the Bulacan governor and vice governor.
Fernando said Christmas is just around the corner and the "Pamaskong Handog" is one of the religious activities that will give new hope and will improve the children's health.
"Kapag naramdaman kasi ng mga matatamlay na bata na mayroong ibang taong nagmamahal sa kanila bukod sa kanilang mga magulang at kapatid, ay sumisigla ang kanilang katawan at pag-iisip (When lethargic children felt there's someone loves them aside from their parents and siblings, their body and mind are energized)," Fernando said.
The Bulacan governor said that helping, serving, and supporting others, particularly the needy without expectation of reward, are ways of sharing blessings.