A total of 2,587 active indigenous peoples households in Central Visayas continue to receive comprehensive assistance from the national government, a social welfare official said on Thursday.
Shalaine Marie Lucero, regional director of the Department of Social Welfare & Development-Central Visayas, said IPs in the Region, particularly the Sama Bajau and Atis in Cebu, received support through the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program cash grants, enhanced interventions, and capability-building activities.
She said the program, an integrated approach and a package of services and interventions to address the needs of IP people living, at-risk in the streets, also assisted them with hygiene kits, educational and livelihood assistance, and leadership training for youth members.
There are a total of 17 indigenous cultural communities in different cities and municipalities in Cebu, Bohol, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.
Last week, members of IP communities were treated to various services during the celebration of IP month at a mall in Cebu City.
The members of the Sama Bajau and Ati Indigenous Peoples communities showed their distinct cultural and traditional identity through a dance presentation.
“We continue to listen to them to IP people in the region and respond to their needs,” she said.
IPs who joined the celebration received services at the venue, like the ‘AlkanSSSya Program’ of the Social Security System, free medical services from the Department of Health, and information-sharing services by the Technical Education & Skills Development Authority.
They were also provided aid through the WiSupport mental health program of DSWD-7, and free legal services from the Public Attorney’s Office.
At the same time, they also received seeds from the Department of Agriculture, and free eye consultation provided by volunteers from the University of San Carlos Alpha Alumni Association.
The Philippine Statistics Authority also guided the IPs for their PhilSys identification card. (PNA)
