DSWD to assign more personnel to assist workers after Boracay closure

BORACAY ISLAND, AKLAN – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) will deploy more personnel and transfer its operational center to a bigger venue amid the flocking of residents and workers seeking financial assistance after Boracay Island was closed to tourists.

Emmanuel Leyco, DSWD officer-in-charge, said in a press conference that the working hours of the center could be extended 24/7 to accommodate those applying for assistance.

The agency has released about P3 million to 1,340 displaced workers as of 9 p.m. of April 26.

On April 26, the first day of the closure of the island to tourists, about 600 applicants went to the center. Some have been lining up as early as 5 a.m.

A maximum of P5,000 in transportation assistance is given to validated applicants who are going to their home provinces.

Meal allowance is also provided, according to DSWD Western Visayas director Rebecca Geamala.