Over 157,000 families get energy crisis relief in Northern Mindanao

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Over 157,000 beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) in Northern Mindanao started receiving a one-time P2,000 cash grant to cushion the financial impact of the ongoing energy emergency.

The funds, released under the Unified Package for Livelihoods, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT), were credited through the Land Bank of the Philippines and partner e-wallet services.

Glofelia Uayan, regional director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development in Northern Mindanao, told the Inquirer Thursday, July 23, they have credited the assistance to 157,788 active 4Ps beneficiaries in the region, totaling over P315.5 million.

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She advised eligible recipients to withdraw the top-up grants via their cash cards and allocate the funds prudently for essential household needs.

Alongside 4Ps grantees, beneficiaries of the Walang Gutom Program (WGP) comprise the first group of UPLIFT recipients.

“We have also started releasing one-time assistance to 19,790 WGP beneficiaries during scheduled food redemption, reflecting the government’s commitment to support Filipino families during challenging times,” Uayan said.

The UPLIFT payout will continue across Northern Mindanao, targeting near-poor households identified by the Philippine Statistics Authority’s Community-Based Monitoring System in coordination with local governments.

“Each eligible household will receive P2,000 monthly from July to December, while local government units will help inform beneficiaries of payout schedules,” Uayan said, adding that for subsequent payouts, recipients may choose between an e-wallet or a Land Bank account. They must bring a valid ID and account details during their first payout. INQ