A total of 2,000 families of so-called indigenous tribes of the “Dumagats” have received relief supplies from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the participation of the said provincial government.
The Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office (PSWDO) first distributed to the aforementioned cultural minority groups or “Dumagat” who live in the mountainous parts of eastern Bulacan, particularly in the barangays of San Mateo in Norzagaray town; Barangay Kalawakan and Kabayunan in Dona Remedios Trinidad (DRT).
Governor Daniel Fernando himself in collaboration with DSWD Region 3 representative Dave Camacho and Rowena Tiongson of PSWDO along with Indigenous People Mandatory Representative Bokal Norma Roque and Tribal Governor Salvador Cruz distributed food supplies containing 6 kilos of rice, canned, coffee, and cereals and energy drinks.
During the said distribution, the governor also gave an early Christmas present where each family received P500 cash from Fernando’s own pocket.
It was learned that 270 indigenous people of Barangay San Mateo, Norzagaray received first, followed by 340 families in Barangay Kalawakan and 280 families in Barangay Kabayunan, all in DRT town.
On Oct 20 (Tuesday) the indigenous tribes from Barangay Camachin and Sapang Bulac will also receive same ‘ayudas’ where the said distribution will be assisted by personnel of the 48th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army (PA).
The last batch of Dumagats from Barangay Karahume in San Jose Del Monte City will be the next recipients of the supplies and cash gifts.
“Even if it is not a pandemic, the government door is always open to all in needs specially to our beloved ancestors and it is also a response to the program of the Provincial Task Force Ending Local Communist Armed Conflict,” said Fernando.
IN PHOTO: Governor Daniel Fernando along with Militon Quizon (inset), a sailor from Dona Remedios Trinidad, Bulacan was one of the 2,000 seafarers who receives food supplies from the Bulacan Provincial Government with the help of Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). The governor with members of the 48th Infantry Battalion climbed and descended the mountains to reach the ‘Dumagat’ community and personally hand-over the said aid. (ELOI SAMONTE)