At least 4,357 residents from two towns and a city in Surigao del Sur received financial aid through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) in a simultaneous payout on Sunday.

The AICS distribution was facilitated by the Department of Social Welfare and Development in the Caraga Region (DSWD-13) and the office of Sen. Imee Marcos.

Some PHP13 million worth of payments were released during the payout activities with beneficiaries receiving PHP3,000 each.

Of the total beneficiaries, 2,600 were from Tago town, 841 from Cortes town and 916 from Tandag City.

In a statement Monday, Gov. Alexander Pimentel thanked DSWD-13 and Sen. Marcos for the release of the financial aid as he led the distribution activity in Tandag City.

“I commend the DSWD-13 for facilitating this payout, from the process of validation and the release done even on Sunday,” Pimentel said.

The Tandag City local government, meanwhile, also underscored the continuing commitment of the DSWD-13 and the office of Sen. Marcos to address the needs of the most vulnerable members of society.

“The AICS payout will help the beneficiaries from their financial burdens by providing them the needed assistance during these difficult times,” the local government said in a statement.

The AICS program, it added, fosters social cohesion and ensures that no one is left behind. (PNA)