Welder uses Makati cash aid to start business

MANILA, Philippines — A welder in Makati who lost his job due to the COVID-19 pandemic used the financial assistance from the city government to set up his own fishball cart business.

Mario Lutang, 42, took on odd jobs after he was laid off in March, when Metro Manila was first placed under quarantine.

When he received the P5,000 “Makatulong” cash aid from the city government, he used the money to buy materials and supplies for his food cart, which he crafted himself.

He has been earning about P500 to P600 a day after opening his business on July 15, the city government said in a statement.

Mayor Abby Binay lauded Lutang for making the most out of the financial assistance.

“I am humbled and amazed by the determination and perseverance of Mario Lutang. He had the foresight to use the city’s cash assistance to generate a sustainable income for him and his family. On behalf of the city government, we applaud you,” she said, thanking him for “serving as an example of hope and resilience.”

The city government alloted P2.7 billion as cash aid for the city’s 500,000 residents and employees.

The city has 3,082 confirmed COVID-19 cases as of Aug. 21, with 1,732 recoveries and 143 deaths.