Lorega fire victims get housing materials

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City government yesterday started distributing construction materials to the fire victims in Barangay Lorega San Miguel.

At least 92 families out of the 1,500 affected by the March 18 fire each received 10 sheets of plywood and galvanized iron.

Ester Concha, chief of the Department of Social Welfare and Services, said the government is set to complete the distribution within the week. Aside from the construction materials, the victims also received cash assistance ranging from P5,000 to P10,000 depending on the damage of their house.

The Department of Labor and Employment will also implement Cash-for-Work Assistance Program to the victims.

DOLE-7 Director Ma. Gloria Tango said that victims who are 18-years old and above would qualify as beneficiaries.

Under the said program, beneficiaries would be tasked to help remove the debris out of fire scene to help the city government in the reblocking process. They will be paid P327 per day as salary. A livelihood training program will also be provided.

Presidential aspirant and Senate Majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano earlier asked Barangay Captain Fritzgerald Herrera and other officials to organize the victims and form associations for the officials to easily reach them and respond to their needs like giving them livelihood programs. Cayetano also distributed P500 to each family.— (FREEMAN)