Manila: At least 5,900 families have received death benefits since Manila Mayor Honey Lacuna assumed office in June 2022. In a statement Wednesday, Lacuna said that under her program dubbed ‘Tulong Para sa Naulila,’ the city government provided Manilans who have lost a loved one with PHP3,000 in financial assistance.

According to Philippines News Agency, in 2024 alone, the local government was able to give these bereaved families cash aid totaling PHP17.7 million. Lacuna assured residents that the distribution of PHP3,000 death benefit assistance for Manila residents in need will continue. She noted that while the financial help may not be enough, it is her administration’s small way of showing sympathy for Manilans who have lost loved ones and making them feel that they are not alone in their bereavement.

At the same time, the city government is undertaking efforts to help Manilans live longer through free primary health care services available in the city’s 44 health centers located across its six districts. Lacuna reported that the health centers are now offering new services alongside the usual health services, which are free to all residents. She called on barangay authorities to encourage their constituents to take advantage of these services.

Among the new offerings are clinical laboratories, ECG (electrocardiogram), and ultrasound for pregnant women, in addition to free maintenance medicines for diabetes and hypertension. Lacuna emphasized the importance of prevention, urging residents to utilize the available health center services.