The Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases is considering the possibility of granting aid to the middle class amid the enhanced community quarantine in Luzon after President Duterte expressed openness to the idea.
“‘Yung sa middle class, middle income, ibang programa po ‘yun, so hiwalay po kaya hindi maaapektuhan yung budget natin para sa mahihirap na kababayan (As for the middle class, middle income, it’s a different program. It’s separate so the budget for the poor will not be affected),” IATF Spokesperson Karlo Nograles explained.
“At this point, we can give other assistance to middle income families but not a social amelioration package, not like this,” Nograles added.
Nograles said while waiting for the decision on the matter, the implementation of the social amelioration program (SAP) for low income households is ongoing.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has already facilitated the issuance of checks for April to various Metro Manila LGUs that have already completed their requirements.
Nograles said some government agencies will continue their operations to address the needs of the public during the Holy Week. – Report from Mela Lesmoras
