The city government here has earmarked PHP10 million for financial assistance to persons with disabilities (PWDs) under the local Department of Social Services and Development Sustainable Livelihood Program (DSSD-SLP).

A total of 1,000 beneficiaries from various barangay associations, the Autism Society of the Philippines, and the Bacolod Special Education Center will receive PHP10,000 each.

DSSD head Alma Gustilo said in an interview that as of Tuesday, the payouts had already been released to 575 recipients.

“The budget comes from the local government unit. In Bacolod, the SLP has become a devolved program from the national government Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). We are allocating PHP10 million for this every year,” she added.

Gustilo said some of the beneficiaries have opened sari-sari stores, engaged in selling fish or charcoal, and acquired electric tricycles for hire.

“The project evaluation officer monitors the status of the livelihood projects of the beneficiaries. If the funded livelihoods prove successful and sustainable, the SLP could recommend further support through additional capital,” she added.

Aside from receiving additional local assistance, beneficiaries with thriving livelihood projects can also avail assistance from the DSWD upon the recommendation of the DSSD, Gustilo said.

In Bacolod, at least 13,000 PWDs have been registered and issued identification cards with quick response or QR codes. (PNA)