P16.5 million medical, burial assistance processed – OVP

MANILA, Philippines — The office of Vice President Sara Duterte has processed over P16.5 million in medical and burial assistance claims since she assumed office on June 30.

Out of the claims, Duterte’s spokesman Reynold Munsayac said more than P7.4 million has been released to qualified recipients.

“These social services were given to intended beneficiaries through the OVP main office in the National Capital Region and its six satellite offices in different provinces,” he said at a press briefing.

According to Munsayac, the OVP intends to open additional satellite offices to expand the reach of its social services programs to marginalized communities.

He said they are evaluating their programs to determine other forms of support that they can offer to Filipinos.

Earlier this week, Duterte said the OVP would launch “Mag-Negosyo Ta ‘Day,” a livelihood assistance program for women and members of the LGBTQ+ community.

“The program aims to stimulate economic activity, generate employment and spur economic growth. Qualified beneficiaries will be entitled to a grant of P20,000 capital and will undergo basic training on business management,” Munsayac said.

The OVP is also looking at possible assistance for those affected by the earthquake that struck Northern Luzon, he added.