A total of 720 senior citizens and persons with disability in Victorias received P1,000 each during the recent payout of stipend for cash-for-work and livelihood support program at the Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña Arts and Cultural Center in the city.
The program aims to improve the quality of life of Victoriasanon senior citizens and PWDs by creating opportunities for social participation, economic empowerment, and community involvement, the city said Jan. 22.
It is anchored on Republic Act 7277, or the Magna Carta for Disabled Persons, which mandates the provision of employment and livelihood opportunities for PWDs, and RA 9994, or the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, which promotes the welfare, protection, and access of senior citizens to livelihood and social support programs.
The program also aligns with the Philippine Development Plan and Ambisyon Natin 2040, which prioritize inclusive growth and social protection for vulnerable sectors.
The payout was organized by the City Social Welfare and Development Office, in coordination with the City Treasurer’s Office, as part of the city government’s continuing efforts to recognize the contributions of senior citizens and PWDs while supporting their daily needs and livelihood initiatives.
The activity was led by the CSWDO, headed by Joy Reunir, through PDAO focal person Arvie Brillantes, senior citizen program implementer Jasteen Cauntod, OSCA head Erlinda Sarito, FSCAP president Gilda Alojamiento, and PWD Federation president Stephen Bompat, together with barangay senior citizen and PWD organization presidents.
Last week, 1,300 Victoriasanon scholars also received P2,500 each in educational assistance for their first semester, as part of the city’s continuing commitment to ensure that financial constraints do not hinder access to education and learning opportunities.
Mayor Abelardo Bantug III, in his message read during the payout at the Don Alejandro Acuña Yap Quiña Arts and Cultural Center Jan. 15, stressed that the program aims to support scholars in building the future they deserve and in achieving their full potential.
He reaffirmed the city’s belief that education is a vital investment, not only in individual success but also in the long-term development of Victorias.
SK Federation president Trisha Mae Majan urged the scholars to value the opportunity provided by the city, remain focused on their studies, and prepare themselves for a better future.
Councilors Dexter Senido, Vincent Marie Roa, and Eric Alcobilla showed their support for the city’s education initiatives and its scholars during the payout, noting that through programs like this, the local government of Victorias continues to prioritize education as a cornerstone of inclusive growth and sustainable development. ||
