By Xander Ledesma
The provincial government of Iloilo will release PHP72.5 million in allowances to barangay volunteers beginning December 2, 2024, as part of its annual support program for community workers. Governor Arthur Defensor Jr. announced in a press conference on Friday that each volunteer will receive PHP5,000, acknowledging their vital role in implementing government programs and projects.
Defensor explained that while the amount may be small compared to the extensive services provided by barangay volunteers, it serves as a gesture of gratitude and recognition of their contributions, particularly during the holiday season. The allowance will benefit barangay health workers, service point officers, daycare workers, and barangay nutrition scholars throughout Iloilo province.
The release of the allowances will follow a district-based schedule to ensure an organized distribution. The fifth district will receive the funds on December 2 and 3, followed by the fourth district on December 4 and 5. The first district will have its release on December 9, while the second district is scheduled for December 10 and 11. The distribution will conclude with the third district on December 12 and 13. Bonded disbursing officers of the provincial treasurer’s office have been instructed to cash advance the funds to facilitate the timely release of the allowances as mandated by Executive Order 233, which the governor signed last week.
The governor highlighted the significance of barangay volunteers in enhancing the provincial government’s programs on health, social welfare, population, and nutrition management. He expressed appreciation for their enduring and sustained efforts in serving their communities.
The allowance program for barangay volunteers is part of the province’s longstanding initiatives to support grassroots workers who have played a vital role in implementing public health and welfare projects. Since the Local Government Code of 1991 devolved certain functions to local government units, volunteers have become an essential workforce in ensuring the effective delivery of services at the community level.
Meanwhile, Governor Defensor announced that the provincial government would adopt a scaled-down Christmas celebration this year in compliance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive for austerity during the holiday season. He stated that the resources saved from reduced festivities would be redirected to assist provinces affected by recent typhoons.
The provincial government is preparing at least PHP8 million for this project, which will be coordinated through the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office and the Office of Civil Defense. Defensor emphasized the importance of providing aid to smaller provinces still recovering from calamities, aligning with the administration’s call for solidarity and resource optimization during the festive season.
This year’s combined initiatives underscore the provincial government’s commitment to supporting both its barangay volunteers and vulnerable communities while adhering to national directives for responsible resource management.