Negros occidental: The Department of Social Welfare and Development-Negros Island Region (DSWD-NIR) has successfully disbursed PHP125.23 million in cash aid to eligible beneficiaries under the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) program in Negros Occidental.

According to Philippines News Agency, since the payout began last month, a total of 62,615 individuals classified as poor or near-poor have each received PHP2,000. The DSWD-NIR explained in a statement that this cash distribution is part of the UPLIFT initiative, which aims to provide immediate financial support to these households.

The release further highlighted that DSWD personnel, in collaboration with local government units and other partners, are actively ensuring the efficient and accountable distribution of the assistance to qualified beneficiaries. Notably, Kabankalan City has the highest number of recipients, with 9,529 individuals scheduled to receive aid between August 10th and 15th.

In Bacolod City, a significant urban center, 3,000 beneficiaries are set to receive the UPLIFT cash assistance over a three-day period concluding on August 12th. Meanwhile, in San Carlos City, located in the northern part of the region, 4,289 beneficiaries received their financial support from August 3rd to 7th.

Central Negros also saw substantial aid distribution, with 2,769 beneficiaries in Isabela town receiving funds from August 6th to 8th. Additionally, La Carlota City disbursed the UPLIFT financial aid to 1,493 recipients on July 30th and 31st.

The UPLIFT program is designed to assist households categorized as poor or near-poor, providing each beneficiary with PHP2,000 monthly from July to December. This initiative seeks to support these households in meeting essential needs while enhancing their economic resilience. Beneficiaries are identified using the Community-Based Monitoring System of the Philippine Statistics Authority, ensuring aid reaches those who qualify based on verified socio-economic data.