The San Juan City local government, together with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), distributed financial aid to 106 families who lost their homes in the fire that hit Barangay Batis on April 16.
(Photo from San Juan LGU)
San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora and DHSUD Undersecretary Randy Escolango led the distribution of the financial assistance held at the city hall. Each beneficiary received P15,000 to aid in their recovery efforts.
"This initiative is part of the department's Integrated Disaster Assistance Program Phase 1, which is the Emergency Response-Emergency Shelter Support, ensuring the well-being and resilience of communities in the face of disasters," the city government said.
"Kayo po (San Juan) ang kauna-unahang tatanggap ng tinatawag na Integrated Disaster Shelter Assistance Program. Ito po 'yung program ng DHSUD na magbigay ng financial assistance sa mga tinamaan ng kalamidad (You San Juaneños are the very first ones to receive what we call Integrated Disaster Shelter Assistance Program of the DHSUD that gives financial assistance to those hit by calamities)," Escolango said.
The executive then lauded Zamora's dedication and proactive efforts in ensuring the swift communication and coordination with the department for the timely disbursement of aid to the fire victims in Isla.
This collaboration not only facilitated the efficient distribution of funds, but also distinguished San Juan as the pioneering beneficiary of this vital program in the Philippines.
The mayor then discussed the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino Program, which is a pivotal initiative by the national government.
"This program will construct prefabricated homes for beneficiaries, providing them with temporary yet secure housing for 1 1/2 to 2 years until the completion of their permanent public housing buildings in F. Manalo st, Barangay Batis. During their stay, beneficiaries will be exempt from paying rent, alleviating their financial burdens as they will only be responsible for electric and water bills," Zamora explained, encouraging eligible families who are fire victims to apply.
Zamora expressed his gratitude to DHSUD Secretary Jerry Acuzar, USec Rovin Feliciano, USec Randy Escolango, and Regional Director Norman Doral for all the support of the department from financial assistance, to building prefabricated homes, to the actual housing units.