ABOUT 600 individuals in Bacolod City, including families of fire victims in Barangays 23 and Singcang-Airport, received cash assistance on Friday, April 30, 2021, from the national government facilitated by Congressman Greg Gasataya.

Gasataya said beneficiaries from various barangays received their cash assistance for medical, burial, among others, at a gymnasium in Barangay Montevista.

The fire victims received P5,000 while cash assistance of other beneficiaries depended on their request.

The budget was taken from the national government, which was downloaded to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

Gasataya said during the distribution, they observed very strict health protocols because of coronavirus disease (Covid-19) cases in the city.

“We required them to have their face masks and face shields to prevent the spread of the virus. We want to help them as well as to ensure their safety,” he said.

The City Government of Bacolod also released cash assistance to fire victims in Purok Neptune, Barangay Singcang-Airport Friday.

The distribution was led by Mayor Evelio Leonardia, Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran and Gasataya.

Families whose houses were destroyed received P10,000. Those with damaged houses received P5,000. Sharers residing in damaged houses also received P3,000.

On April 26, a fire razed a total of 55 houses in Purok Neptune. Fire destroyed a total of 46 houses and damaged nine others, with five sharers.

The distribution was also attended by Councilors Renecito Novero, Simple Distrito Al Victor Espino, Department of Social Services and Development, and other city and barangay officials.