By Michelle Ducut
The provincial government of Ilocos Norte has distributed PHP19.56 million in cash aid to 4,914 village workers as part of its annual Christmas caravan, alongside Noche Buena packages for underprivileged families.
Governor Matthew Joseph Manotoc led the distribution on Wednesday, providing PHP4,000 cash assistance to workers from Laoag City and the towns of Vintar, Bacarra, Nueva Era, and Banna. The Yuletide aid increased from PHP3,000 last year, aiming to support the community during the holiday season.
Karen Lucas, a village treasurer from Barangay 5 San Pedro, Laoag City, expressed gratitude, noting how the financial aid helps cover additional holiday expenses.
The program benefits various village workers, including health workers, nutrition scholars, child development workers, service point officers, village chiefs, council members, secretaries, and treasurers, as a gesture of appreciation for their service to their communities.
Punong Barangay Manny Morales of Barangay 1 San Lorenzo shared that the assistance motivates them to continue serving their constituents with dedication.
In addition to financial support for village workers, the provincial government also distributed Noche Buena packages containing longganisa, eggs, and dressed chicken to 54 families under the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) program, 140 indigent senior citizens, and 70 persons with disabilities in Banna and Nueva Era.
The Christmas caravan also provided school supplies to 630 preschoolers and fertilizers to 88 farmers as part of its broader initiative to uplift residents across various sectors.
During the distribution event, Governor Manotoc thanked the village workers for their unwavering service and encouraged other beneficiaries to avail themselves of government programs aimed at enhancing their quality of life.
“If you need anything, just let us know, and we will do our best to provide for you,” he said.