ECQ-hit residents to get cash aid next week, says DILG exec

THE national government expects to distribute by next week its promised cash assistance to residents who are under the strictest lockdown, an official said on Friday.

Interior Undersecretary Jonathan Malaya said the order for the release of funds by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) will be released within the day.

“We expect [the] release of the [special allotment release order (SARO)] today, so by next week, the [local government units] should be able to start distribution,” he said in a text message to The Manila Times.

Malaya added preparations are underway on the part of the local chief executives.

The enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) in Metro Manila began this Friday. It will be in place for two weeks or until August 20.

A one-time cash grant worth P1,000 per individual and up to P4,000 per family will be distributed.

Asked how government officials plan to fast-track the dole outs during the third lockdown, Malaya said they will sit down with the mayors to tackle the matter on Saturday.