Since 2017, Southern Leyte province has been extending Php500.00 monthly social pension for the benefit of poor PWDs who need utmost support as they cannot earn a living due to problems of health and mobility. Some do not have regular income while children with disabilities cannot even go to school out of poverty.

The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) headed by Luzviminda Rosete, revealed that for 2017, there were 97 beneficiaries, which cost the province Php582,000; in 2018 – 166, with an assistance of Php996,000; and last year, 500 PWDs, with Php3 M fund extended by the province.

Last week, the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO) under Arcelyn Bajador, assisted the provincial government for the release of Php84,000.00 for 28 PWD social pensioners of St. Bernard municipality.

Benefiting said aid are from Barangays Lipanto, Hindag, Himbangan, San Isidro, Nueva Esperanza, Mahayag, Bolodbolod, Tambis, Cabagawan, Himosonan, Catmon, Bantawon, and Ayahag.

Regional Director Marie Angela Gopalan of the Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office VIII cited Southern Leyte, saying there is need for everyone to unite to address the plight of persons with disability.

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