Manila: The Pag-abot program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reached out to 92 beneficiaries in the Caraga Region as of July, with 83 already reintegrated into their communities and given assistance.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD-13 program information officer Ebrahim Malazarte stated that the beneficiaries are residents from the region who once ventured to other places, mostly in Metro Manila, to seek opportunities but eventually ended up on the streets. As of last month, over PHP1.06 million in assistance had been given to the 83 beneficiaries.

Data provided by DSWD-13 indicated that of the total aid released, PHP479,250 was allocated for livelihood assistance, while PHP462,000 was for funding transitory shelters. A total of PHP50,000 was also allocated for transportation and relocation assistance, PHP40,000 for medical support, PHP20,000 for financial assistance, and PHP10,000 for psychological support.

Among the program's beneficiaries was Arlene, who went to Quezon City this year to work as a domestic helper. Due to a dispute with a fellow domestic worker, she left her job and stayed on the streets of Quezon City. On July 8, she was reached through the Walang Gutom Kitchen program of the agency and referred to DSWD-13. After assessment and evaluation, Arlene was finally brought back home on Aug. 19 to Barangay San Teodoro, Bunawan, Agusan del Sur.

DSWD-13 emphasized in a statement on Monday that through its rights-based, humane, and people-centered approach, the DSWD Pag-abot Program continues to reach individuals in street situations, respond to their immediate needs, and facilitate their safe return and reintegration into their families and communities. The statement added that the accomplishments highlight the continued implementation of the program in the Caraga Region in coordination with local government units and other concerned government agencies.