Manila: Executive Secretary Ralph Recto spearheaded the release of Socio-Civic Projects Fund (SCPF) checks to 1,721 barangays in Iloilo province and launched the Bagong Pilipinas rice distribution in Pavia on Tuesday. In a move that aims to bring government programs closer to the Ilonggo people, Recto highlighted the administration's commitment to making government services tangible and beneficial.

According to Philippines News Agency, Recto emphasized President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s vision for the Bagong Pilipinas Rice Program, which provides 1,500 initial beneficiaries with 10 kilos of rice every two months. This initiative is part of a broader effort to assist 8,000 families in Pavia, funded by the PHP5 million Local Government Support Fund (LGSF).

Evelyn Gallego, a recipient from Purok 3, expressed her gratitude for the rice assistance, noting its impact on her household. Similarly, Marivic Retrado from Purok 2 acknowledged the relief it brings to their family's expenses.

Recto also participated in the orientation of 215 presidential scholars under the Bawat Barangay Makikinabang Program and oversaw the distribution of SCPF checks at the Iloilo Convention Center. The scholarship initiative supports over 8,000 scholars across Iloilo's municipalities, aiming to empower students to complete their education and pursue their aspirations.

"Sa kauna-unahang pagkakataon sa ilalim ng Presidential Socio-Civic Funds, bawat barangay ay binigyan PHP200,000 mula sa ating Pangulo," Recto stated, underscoring the investment in education and the future of the nation.

Kirsten Arib, a scholar from St. Paul's University, acknowledged the timely support as she navigates the financial demands of her final year in Tourism and Management.

Recto's visit also included attending the Luzon cluster conference of the League of Municipalities of the Philippines (LMP) at the Iloilo Convention Center, joined by key figures such as Secretary Philip Lo, Governor Arthur Defensor Jr., Representatives Kathy Gorriceta and Janette Garin, and LMP Iloilo Chapter President Suzette Mamon.