Shearline-affected fisherfolk from Paracale, Camarines Norte happily receives cash relief assistance from DSWD AICS Staff.

PARACALE, CAMARINES NORTE – With the challenges posed by the ongoing Shear Line phenomenon affecting fishermen in the area, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Bicol remains steadfast in its commitment to providing assistance to those in need.

As the adverse weather conditions persist, the distribution of cash relief assistance for fishermen in Paracale, Camarines Norte, continues. To date, a total of 757 fishermen have received the much-needed financial support from DSWD Bicol. Each beneficiary has been granted PHP 3,000.00, aimed at helping them cope with their daily expenses during this difficult period.

RD Norman Laurio affirmed that this assistance comes as crucial lifeline for fishermen who are unable to venture out to sea due to the inclement weather brought about by the Shear Line. “With their livelihoods temporarily disrupted, the cash relief serves as a vital source of support to meet their basic needs and sustain their families,” RD Laurio elaborated.

The total financial aid disbursed through the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program has now reached PHP 2,271,000.00 within the three days of the Offsite Serbisyo Payout specifically done for Shear Line-affected fisherfolks.

“Sana po patuloy ang ganitong programa para maraming mangingisda ang inyo pang matulungan lalo sa oras na kanilang lubos na kailangan,” Mr Raulm Salutan, 56, a fisherfolk from Palanan, Paracale shared during his interview and assessment.

(I hope that this program continues so that many fishermen can be further assisted especially at times when they truly need it.)

The identification of beneficiaries was conducted in close coordination with the Municipal Agriculture Office (MAO). The verification process was meticulously carried out by the personnel from the Municipal Social Welfare and Development Office (MSWDO), adhering to the established protocols outlined in the DROMIC Report.

This is the second batch of affected fisherfolks from Camarines Norte who have received financial assistance from the agency.

Thru the directives of DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, DSWD Bicol reaffirms its unwavering commitment to supporting communities in times of crisis, providing much-needed relief to those affected by the adverse impacts of the shearline.#