DSWD Allocates P50 Million for Education Support to Ilocos Students

LAOAG — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has provided PHP5,000 in cash aid to 1,551 students from towns in Ilocos Norte affected by Typhoon Egay and other calamities last year. The aid, part of the Makabasa Latta (Continued Schooling) program, aims to support continued education and was distributed at the Ilocos Norte National High School. Beneficiaries hailed from towns including Adams, Carasi, Dumalneg, Pasuquin, Banna, Bangui, Pagudpud, Piddig, Burgos, and Marcos.

According to Philippines News Agency, Senator Imee Marcos, who attended the distribution event, mentioned that the program has already benefited 6,000 students, with plans to extend further support given the remaining PHP11.5 million out of the PHP50 million set aside for the initiative. The program initially targeted college students or those entering college, dependents of farmers or fishermen impacted by the typhoon, offering PHP15,000 in one-time education support per beneficiary. Due to overwhelming demand, additional funding was sought to accommodate over 15,000 applicants.