The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) approved on Tuesday (April 20) the request of local government units (LGUs) for an extension of the period of assistance distribution to persons affected by enhanced community quarantine (ECQ).
The decision was made to extend up to May 15 the distribution of the P22.9 billion aid from the national government in Metro Manila, Bulacan, Rizal, Laguna, and Cavite, the areas termed ‘NCR Plus.’
The extension was agreed upon by DILG Secretary Eduardo Año, Social Welfare Secretary Rolando Bautista, and Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana following a meeting with Metro Manila officials.
“This extension is a ‘one-time’ extension only across all LGUs in NCR (National Capital Region) Plus and will no longer be extended anew,” DILG Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said.
“It is very challenging to do distribution during a pandemic. Our LGUs cannot go full blast given the grave threat of Covid-19. so their request for more time is justified,” he added.
The official said the extension will provide ample time for LGUs to make adjustments, respond to, and evaluate complaints and appeals submitted to the LGU Grievance and Appeals Committee.
Half of NCR recipients handed aid
The DILG said 51.64% or 5,769,852 beneficiaries in NCR have received their cash assistance amounting to P5.79 billion as of April 19, 2021.
Mandaluyong City has the highest distribution rate in NCR at 74.32% or P270.9 million, followed by San Juan City at 63.78% or P98.42 million, Caloocan City at 63.46% or P848 million, Manila at 60% or P915.7 million, and Quezon City at 59.77% or P1.483 billion.
A total of P11.1 billion in aid was released to all LGUs in NCR. -AG-jlo
