SANTA MARCELA, Apayao – 568 beneficiaries of the Ayuda para sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) received financial assistance at the EKB Memorial Sports Center in Barangay San Carlos, Santa Marcela on May 31, 2024.
Said distribution event was led by Apayao Lone District Representative Cong. Eleanor C. Bulut-Begtang, along with Department of Social Welfare and Development – Cordillera (DSWD-CAR) Regional Director Maria Catbagan-Aplaten.
A total of P1.7 million was disbursed to assist near-poor individuals, minimum wage earners, and those in the informal economy. This financial aid aims to help them withstand the adverse effects of inflation and prevent them from falling into poverty.
The beneficiaries included barangay captains, Kagawads, Tanods, Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS), Child Development Workers (CDWs), Lupon Tagapamayapa, members of the Santa Marcela Tricycle Operators and Drivers’ Association (SMTODA), Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) Chairpersons, and 117 senior citizens. Each beneficiary received P3,000.
Cong. Bulut-Begtang emphasized that the AKAP program specifically addresses the needs of barangay officials and other sectors not eligible for other DSWD programs, such as TUPAD, cash-for-work, 4Ps, and other initiatives.
Before the event in Santa Marcela, Cong. Bulut-Begtang also led the AKAP payout in the municipality of Pudtol. By Krizza Joy Castillo
