Geneva: The Department of Labor and Employment-Negros Island Region (DOLE-NIR) has allocated an initial PHP3.815 million to provide financial assistance to sugarcane workers affected by the recent typhoon in mill districts across Negros Occidental. For the first tranche of this aid, 3,815 beneficiaries have been identified, each eligible to receive PHP1,000.
According to Philippines News Agency, the cash assistance is distributed under the agency's Social Amelioration Program (SAP). This initiative is part of DOLE-NIR's ongoing efforts to support sugarcane workers by offering immediate financial relief, aiding their recovery from the adverse effects of natural calamities. As of Tuesday, PHP3.657 million has been disbursed to 3,657 recipients.
The Binalbagan-Isabela Sugar Company in Binalbagan hosts the largest number of beneficiaries, with 900 mill workers and 783 field workers receiving support. Other beneficiaries include 520 mill workers from Universal Robina Corp. (URC) Sonedco in Kabankalan City, alongside 324 mill workers and 158 field workers from URC La Carlota in La Carlota City.
Sagay Central Inc. in Sagay City has completed its disbursement to 322 mill worker beneficiaries. Additionally, 308 mill workers from the Hawaiian-Philippine Company in Silay City and 500 mill workers from Victorias Milling Company in Victorias City are included among those receiving aid.
DOLE-NIR has stated that subsequent releases to additional sugar mills and qualified beneficiaries are anticipated in the forthcoming weeks as the validation and coordination procedures continue.
