By: Region VI

Malay, Aklan - The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office VI  has released a total of P19.8 million as livelihood assistance to Boracay residents and workers affected by the closure last May 31, 2018.

The 1,323 recipients were among the first batch of recipients for DSWD’s Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP) in Boracay. Each recipient received P15,000 each.

Among the recipients were the 429 residents of Barangay Balabag, 169 from Manocmanoc and 115 from Yapak.

Further, livelihood grants were also given to the 283 members of Malay Sailing Boat Owner Association Inc. (MASBOI), 194 members of Malay Boracay Vendors Association (MABOVEN), 63 tour guides from Boracay Mabuhay Host Association, 28 massage therapist who are members of iPHiLMA Skilled Association (ISA), 32 from Boracay Ladies Caddies Association, and 10 members of Malay Tour Operators Association (MALTOA) Tour Guides.

Secretary Virginia Orogo said a total P250 million was allocated by DSWD for the implementation of SLP in Boracay.

She said the second round of releasing for another 1,000 recipients is already underway and expected to be released by early June.

Among the livelihood proposed by residents includes accessory making, sari-sari store, bakery, souvenir making, among others.

The DSWD is likewise targeting to release SLP grant to at least 11,000 households in Boracay.