Lack of time prevents cash aid distribution

CEBU, Philippines - Due to lack of time, the Cebu City government may not be able to fulfill its promise to distribute the remaining P2,000 cash aid for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) at the end of this month.  

Mayor Michael Rama said all documents for the release of the amount for PWDs and seniors are yet to be finalized by the Accounting Department.

Considering that today is this year's last working day for all government employees, the city government may not be able to pay its dues to the PWDs and elders.

Last Saturday, over 60,000 senior citizens in the city received P2,000, half of the supposed P4,000 cash assistance the PWDs and seniors citizens should receive for the last tranche this year.

The senior citizens would receive P10,000 cash assistance yearly from the city government.

City Administrator Jose Marie Poblete earlier announced that the release of the cash assistance for the PWDs was scheduled before Christmas.

Prior to the announcement, Poblete said they are still fixing glitches at the accounting level. Due to this, over 11,000 PWDs may not get the same amount the elders are getting.

The P3,000 of the annual P5,000 cash assistance was released earlier following an appropriation of P22 million.

Rama said he will check the matter today to fast track everything.  – (FREEMAN)