THERE will be no more medical and funeral assistance under the Lingap Para sa Mahirap program for members of the New People's Army (NPA) and criminals.

Based on a report from the City Information Office, Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio signed on March 14 Executive Order No. 7 series of 2018, which excludes the rebels and criminals, among others, from the program.

"There is a need to amend Section 3 of Executive Order No. 35, series of 2016 or the coverage of Lingap Para sa Mahirap Program to further strengthen the program’s processes and to ensure the efficient delivery of its services to qualified residents of Davao City,” Duterte-Carpio said.

Now excluded from the Lingap Para sa Mahirap Program are:

1. Drivers or passengers who acquired injuries in a motorcycle accident because of violation of pertinent traffic laws and rules and regulations (e.g. non-use of helmet for either or both the passenger/driver);

2. Patients who are found to be members of the New People’s Army as they have already been identified as terrorists under Proclamation No. 947 (“Declaring the New People’s Army (NPA) as Designated/Identified Terrorist Organization under Republic Act No. 10168”), for their injuries arising from clashes with government troops;

3. Drivers involved in a vehicular accident who are found to have violated Republic Act No. 10586 (“An Act Penalizing Persons Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol, Dangerous Drugs, and Similar Substances, and for Other Purposes);

4. Individuals who suffer injuries while committing a crime or an offense punishable under existing Philippine laws, rules, and regulations; and

5. Patients in maternity cases, with the exception of medical issues involving newborn babies.

The Lingap Para sa Mahirap Program was implemented by the Davao city government to provide medical and funeral assistance to indigent residents of Davao City. (with report from CIO)