ILOILO CITY — In the face of disaster, the true spirit of a community is often bared.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently released P502,500 in cash assistance to 88 families displaced by a devastating fire in Barangays Tanza Bonifacio and Rizal Estanzuela on June 17. This immediate and heartfelt response underscores the strength and compassion inherent in the city's crisis management.
Facilitated by Iloilo City Lone District Rep. Julienne Baronda, the swift release of funds through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) is a testament to effective governance and proactive leadership.
The disbursement included P10,000 each for 34 families whose homes were completely destroyed, P5,000 for 16 families with partially damaged houses, and P2,500 for sharers and boarders.
This aid is not just monetary relief but a lifeline for families struggling to rebuild their lives from the ashes.
Beyond Immediate Relief
Baronda’s commitment extends beyond immediate relief. Her office is diligently working to secure further assistance under the Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), with P15,000 earmarked for vendors who lost their livelihoods.
This forward-thinking approach acknowledges that recovery is not just about physical rebuilding but also about restoring economic stability.
Additionally, solo parents, trisikad drivers, and security guards will benefit from the DSWD’s “Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program” (AKAP), providing targeted support for near-poor families.
The stories of resilience among the fire's victims are both heartbreaking and inspiring. Helen Dayon, 79, expressed gratitude for the assistance that will help her rebuild her home. Having lost her house and belongings, she was fortunate to save her physically-challenged daughter.
Remarkably, this is not her first experience with such loss; her home was also destroyed by fire in 1992. Her courage and determination to rebuild once again reflect the indomitable spirit of the people of Iloilo.
Similarly, Pearl Joy Gabayoyo, a young entrepreneur whose sari-sari store was obliterated just a month after opening, looks forward to the SLP aid. Her optimism and drive to start over encapsulate the hope and perseverance that characterize the city’s residents.
Resilience Planning
While the immediate response has been commendable, the path to full recovery will require sustained effort and support. It is crucial that both government and private sectors continue to collaborate in providing resources, opportunities, and emotional support to those affected.
The proactive steps taken by Baronda and the DSWD should serve as a model for other regions, demonstrating the power of swift, coordinated action in times of crisis.
Moreover, this situation highlights the importance of preparedness and resilience planning.
Iloilo City can leverage this experience to bolster its disaster response strategies, ensuring that future incidents are met with even greater efficiency and compassion.
Investing in fire prevention, community education, and robust support networks will be key to minimizing the impact of such disasters.
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