Quezon, Philippines - On Wednesday, 784 members of the LGBTQIA+ community in Quezon's Bondoc Peninsula received PHP3,000 each in government aid. The financial support was provided under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, operated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The recipients are residents of the towns within the 3rd District of Quezon, including Padre Burgos, Agdangan, Unisan, Pitogo, Macalelon, Gen. Luna, Catanauan, Mulanay, San Francisco, Buenavista, San Narciso, and San Andres.
According to Philippines News Agency, the disbursement occurred during the launch of the 'Puso ni Alona para sa Bahaghari' at the Bulwagang May Puso. The event featured remarks from Mayor Matt Erwin Florido, who underscored the local government's appreciation of the LGBTQIA+ community through financial and other forms of assistance. Suarez highlighted additional support avenues available through her office, including employment contracts, scholarship grants, and hospitalization benefits. She reassured attendees of potential support for medical needs through partnerships with private and specialty hospitals.
Ogie Yulde, a local beneficiary, expressed his gratitude, noting the significance of the recognition and support from the DSWD and the Alona Party-list for one of the society's most vulnerable groups.