The Department of Social Services and Development-Bacolod disbursed Sept. 25 P2.9 million in financial aid to 290 families affected by the recent fire in Barangay 27.
Mayor Greg Gasataya instructed the DSSD to expedite aid for families at the Apolinario Mabini Elementary School evacuation center.
“I know you have all been through a lot, but if we continue helping one another, we can rise again together,” the mayor added.

A total of 144 families, whose houses were destroyed, received P15,000 each, while families with damaged homes were given P10,000 each.
Ester De Asis, a recipient, expressed her appreciation for the city government’s swift action. “This will help us a lot in rebuilding our house after the fire.”
In addition to homeowners, 146 sharers and renters each received P5,000, the city said in a press release.
Joining the mayor at the payout were councilors Homer Bais, Celia Flor, Psyche Marie Sy, and Bobby Rojas, along with DSSD head Richelle Verdeprado-Mangga.
The DSSD is collaborating with local authorities and agencies to offer extensive support to the fire-affected families.
The Bacolod city government is also working with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development regarding a potential land donation for an onsite housing project in the barangay. ||