The Manila local government marked the first anniversary of the "Unang Abuloy ng Maynila" program which has been offering vital assistance to bereaved families across the city.
The program, which was officially launched in January 2024, aims to offer financial and emotional assistance to the grieving families of deceased Manileños.
The initiative was implemented under Ordinance No. 9019 spearheaded by Councilor Salvador Philip Lacuna of Manila's 6th District.
“Ang Unang Abuloy po ang ambag ng pakikiramay ng Lungsod ng Maynila para sa mga pamilya ng mga yumaong Manileño. Si Konsehal Salvador Philip Lacuna po ng ikaanim na distrito ang pangunahing may-akda ng Ordinance No. 9019 na siyang basehan ng programa (The Unang Abuloy program is the City of Manila's contribution of sympathy to the families of deceased Manileños. Councilor Salvador Philip Lacuna of the sixth district is the author of Ordinance No. 9019 which is the basis of the program),” said Atty. Princess Abante, head of the Manila Public Information Office.
The ordinance authorizes the disbursement of P3,000 in funeral assistance to the family of each deceased individual.
“To express sympathy and gratitude to its dearly departed constituents, and considering the escalating costs of burial services nowadays, the City Government of Manila recognizes the need to further support its citizens by providing primary financial assistance as well as emotional support to their bereaved families,” explained Councilor Lacuna.
Since its launch, the program has assisted more than 8,600 families, disbursing over ₱25.8 million in total funeral aid.
The support has made a significant impact in alleviating the financial burdens faced by families during an already difficult time.
In line with the program, Mayor Honey Lacuna-Pangan has ordered the Manila City Social Welfare Department to compile a comprehensive guide detailing the various services and programs available to families, both from the city and national agencies.
This guide is intended to provide additional resources to families coping with the loss of a loved one.
The "Unang Abuloy" program officially took effect on January 22, 2024 when the mayor signed Ordinance No. 9019 into law.
The ordinance stipulates that the assistance is available to the family members of bona fide residents of Manila or registered voters, with special provisions for minors whose parents meet these criteria.
To ensure that all eligible families are notified, the city’s barangays, through the Manila Barangay Bureau and the Liga ng mga Barangay, are assigned with reporting recently deceased residents or registered voters.
A hotline system had also been set up for each district to assist with these reports:
- District 1: 0927 346 6667
- District 2: 0919 810 6787
- District 3: 0919 358 1842
- District 4: 0905 364 8189
- District 5: 0997 882 4763
- DISTRICT 6: 0922 714 4752
As the “Unang Abuloy ng Maynila” program continues, it remains as the city’s commitment to providing support and compassion to its citizens, especially during times of loss.