In Eastern Samar PNoy leads distribution of aid for Ruby victims

BORONGAN CITY, Philippines – President Benigno Aquino III on Monday led the turnover of a P68-million check for a cash-for-work program, shelter-fixing kits and hygiene kits for victims of typhoon Ruby in this city.

Before Borongan, Aquino led the turnover of assistance to Ruby victims in Dolores town, some 66 kilometers north of the Eastern Samar capital city, according to a PNA report published in interaksyon.com

In his speech at the turnover in this city, Aquino lauded the cooperation of local government units and residents in efforts to lessen the impact of the recent typhoon.

"I commend you for your resilience and your strength. Thank you for being an inspiration to the Filipino people," the president told the crowd of nearly a thousand city residents along with national and local government officials.

Secretaries Dinky Soliman of Social Welfare, Carlos Jericho Petilla of Energy and Voltaire Gazmin of National Defense, Eastern Samar Governor Conrado Nicart and Mayor Maria Fe Abunda assisted the president in the ceremonial distribution of kits to the first 10 beneficiaries.

The P68-million cash-for-work check handed over to Abunda was intended for 17,457 beneficiaries at P250 each for 15 working days.

"We thank the national government for helping us. Secretaries Mar Roxas and Edwin Lacierda were here before, during and after typhoon Ruby to lead preparedness activities and assure us that the government will extend all the needed assistance," Abunda said.

The shelter-fixing kit included a tarpaulin, tie wire, rope, umbrella nails, and common nails. Each kit costs P660, according to DSWD. The hygiene kit worth P1,267 consisted of sanitary napkin, blanket, bath soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, pail and dipper. — From the wires