A total of 1,500 families from five barangays in the Municipality of Cateel received cash assistance amounting to ₱9,960.00 each under the Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The distribution was personally led today, July 15, 2024, by Governor Niño Uy, in coordination with the Provincial Government, Cateel Mayor Emilou Nuñez, and DSWD XI OIC-Assistant Regional Director for Operations, Dahlia S. Padillo.
The governor emphasized his commitment to ensuring that the ECT is distributed fairly to all affected families regardless of their social status, stating that every resident deserves quality and equitable service.
“Regardless of who you are, no matter your status in life, all those affected will receive government aid. This is not a politician’s money—it should be shared with all those affected by the disaster. There should be no favoritism. I hope it won’t be wasted and will help in our early recovery,” said Gov. Uy.
The beneficiaries include those affected by natural calamities from five barangays in Cateel: Sta. Felomina, Malibago, San Miguel, Mainit, and Abejod.
According to data, around 17,880 families in Cateel were affected by the recent Shearline and Trough of Low-Pressure Area (LPA) starting this year.
With the efforts of the Governor and the support of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian and President Bongbong Marcos, the national government took action to address the needs of the people of Davao Oriental.
Mayor Nuñez of Cateel also expressed his message to maintain good local governance in the municipality and his goal of making life comfortable for every resident of Cateel despite the hardships brought by disasters.
Governor Uy continues to implement various initiatives and programs to meet the major needs of affected individuals—not only in response to natural disasters but also in tourism, agriculture, infrastructure, employment, healthcare, and improving disaster preparedness in Davao Oriental.
The event was also attended by Board Members Nenette Palmera and Michelle Malanyaon Centeno, PSWDO Department Head Juvy Abarca, and Cateel Vice Mayor Maning Chua.
The ECT distribution will continue tomorrow, July 16, until Friday, July 19, in other barangays in Cateel. There are also scheduled distributions in other municipalities in the province in the coming days.
By Nelton Abing | Photos by JB Rain, Redd Bayron
