Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, March 20) — The cash-for-work program for individuals affected by the oil spill in Oriental Mindoro, Palawan and Antique will be extended until May, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) said Monday.
Miramel Laxa, DSWD assistant bureau director, said only one representative of a family can get the cash assistance and that the amount is based on the minimum wage in the affected population’s area.“As of March 20, nasa kabuuan na ₱116 million na pondo ang ating napamahagi para ma-cover yung mahigit na 18,762 na individuals. Pero ito ay particularly sa cash-for-work program,” Laxa said during the Laging Handa briefing.[Translation: As of March 20, a total of ₱116 million of funds have been distributed to cover the 18,762 individuals. But this is particularly for the cash-for-work program.]DSWD also said a total of 32,661 families or 154,163 individuals are affected by the oil spill in 131 barangays in Oriental Mindoro, Palawan and Antique.Earlier, the Office of Civil Defense reported that 31,495 families are affected by the oil spill.
READ: Over 31,000 families affected by Mindoro oil spill – OCD
DSWD defined the cash-for-work program as a “short term intervention to provide temporary employment to distressed or displaced individuals” before, during or after a disaster.
Meanwhile, the Maritime Industry Authority (MARINA) will provide more than ₱33 million for the immediate oil containment operations.
Sharon Aledo, MARINA legal service director, said Monday the fund will be released “any time within the week,” which will provide equipment such as dispersants and personal protective equipment (PPEs).
Last week, the equipment and gear that Japan donated for the oil spill cleanup arrived. This includes oil blotters, heavy oil absorption masks, working gloves, rubber boots and protective workwear.
