BONTOC, Mountain Province – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in collaboration with the Office of Congressman Maximo Dalog, Jr., successfully distributed the first payout to beneficiaries of the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP) on June 4, 2024, at the Mountain Province State Polytechnic College (MPSPC) Auditorium.
A total of 687 recipients from the Municipalities of Bontoc, Sabangan, Sadanga, Besao, and Sagada received a cash incentive worth P3,000 each to minimum wage earners who are suffering from the effects of inflation in the country.
Among these individuals, 281 hail from Bontoc, Mountain Province. This momentous event, led by Congressman Dalog marked a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to provide relief to those affected by economic hardships even if they are working in government.
In his Welcome Message, Bontoc Mayor Jerome “Chagsen” Tudlong Jr., expressed his heartfelt gratitude on behalf of the beneficiaries to President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr., House Speaker Martin Romualdez and DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian for their initiative in the said program.
The mayor also lauded Congressman Dalog and his team for their tireless effort in seeking ways to support not just the people of Bontoc, but the entire province. He then urged the beneficiaries to make the most of the financial assistance they were receiving.
“Do not waste this opportunity on unnecessary things, instead, use it to create lasting memories that will remind you that your government is committed to helping its people,” Tudlong advised.
To qualify as a beneficiary under AKAP, the individual must belong to the low-income category, such as those whose income does not exceed the statutory minimum wage, according to the MC No. 4 signed by the DSWD Secretary Gatchalian last February 26, 2024. Those who are already receiving regular assistance from DSWD such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and indigent senior citizens will be automatically disqualified. By Shannon Anthea S. Pagaduan
