THE Department Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) started yesterday distributing aid, including a P10,000 livelihood cash assistance, to indigenous families who have been rescued off the streets of Metro Manila such as the Badjaos and Aetas who would soon be sent back to their homes.
DSWD Secretary Erwin Tulfo led the distribution of food packs, hygiene kits and other aid to some 100 Badjaos who were rescued and were temporarily staying at the Jose Fabella Center in Mandaluyong City.
Tulfo said each family also gets a P10,000 financial assistance to help in their livelihood, adding the government will shoulder their transportation expenses back to their communities.
He said the cash assistance aims to encourage them to stay in their communities and put up some livelihood or startup businesses instead of begging for alms in Metro Manila and other urban cities.
He also said that those with children could qualify for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino program (4Ps) provided they are registered and their kids are enrolled in school.
Tulfo said aside from Metro Manila, the DSWD will soon start its operations in other urban areas where the Badjaos, Aetas and other indigenous people frequently beg for alms during the holiday season.
