DSWD to provide food, educational, other aid to Silvertino family
Aside from financial assistance, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said on Thursday (June 11) it will also provide food, livelihood, and educational assistance to the family members of Michelle Silvertino, who died last week after being stranded in Pasay City, while waiting for a bus ride to bring her home to Calabanga, Camarines Sur.
The DSWD said financial assistance amounting to P15,400 has been given to Silvertino's mother, Marlyn.
The aid was given by the Field Office V Municipal Action Team (MAT) to Silvertino's mother, who has taken custody of her four grandchildren, aged four to 11 years old, it said.
"In addition, the DSWD shall provide: access to livelihood through DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) for Michelle’s brother and sister, who serve as custodians for the four surviving children; educational assistance for the three children who are in grade school; and food assistance for 10 days," the DSWD said in a statement.
The DSWD identified Silvertino as a Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) beneficiary, and a Social Amelioration Program cash recipient.
"Since Michelle was a 4Ps beneficiary, DSWD MAT shall process for the change in grantee," it said.
"DSWD will also assess the children and explore alternative child care, as necessary," it added.
In a virtual press briefing, DSWD Secretary Rolando Bautista said the agency condoled with Silvertino's family, even as he gave the assurance that the DSWD Field Office will provide immediate assistance to her family.
Last June 5, the 33-year old Silvertino was found unconscious at a footbridge in Pasay City. On the same day, she was brought to the Pasay City General Hospital (PCGH), and was declared dead on arrival.