MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Development regional office in the Western Visayas released P19.8 million in livelihood assistance to a first batch of workers and residents affected by the closure of Boracay to tourists. According to a release by DSWD-6, the first batch of 1,323 recipients received P15,000 each under the department's Sustainable Livelihood Program. Most of the beneficiaries — 429 residents — came from Barangay Balabag while 169 from Manoc-Manoc and 115 from Yapak also received assistance. Among the livelihood proposed by residents are making accessories and souvenirs and putting up sari-sari stores and bakeries. "The DSWD has also provided P593,500 medical assistance to 155 clients and P25,000 to five clients for burial assistance," DSWD-6 said.

Source: Philippine Star May 31, 2018 13:18 UTC