Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 1) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) eyes providing ₱127 million worth of fuel subsidies to the oil spill-affected fisherfolk in Oriental Mindoro.
“We’re also in the plan of providing ₱127 million oil subsidy for the motorized and non-motorized bangka owners,” DSWD Assistant Secretary Marlon Alagao said in a press briefing on Thursday.
The DSWD also said it has allocated ₱697 million worth of subsidies for the affected population of Region 4-A, Region 4-B, and Region 6.
“Still there is ongoing cash-for-work, food and non-food items deliveries to Mimaropa, and emergency cash transfers. All of which are depending on the advice of the local government units,” Alagao said.
READ: Gov’t urged to provide subsidy to fisherfolk affected by oil spill
Last April 10, environmental groups said the one-time aid given to affected fisherfolk in Oriental Mindoro remained \”insufficient.\”
A survey conducted by Kalikasan People’s Network for the Environment from April 1 to 3 showed that respondents from the municipalities of Calapan and Pola said the “ayuda” given them was not enough.
READ: Groups: Residents say socio-economic impact of Mindoro oil spill worse than COVID
As of March 26, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Center said the oil slick has affected a total of 172,928 residents, the majority of whom are from Mimaropa.
The oil spill originated from the tanker MT Princess Empress that sank in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro on Feb. 28.
