The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office VI (DSWD FO VI) has commenced the distribution of cash assistance to families displaced by the recent eruption of Kanlaon Volcano through the Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) program today, May 15, 2025.

A total of 1,711 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have received the cash assistance.

Of this, 1,362 are from La Castellana, 327 from La Carlota City, and 22 from Bago City in Negros Occidental—areas heavily affected by ashfall and sulfuric emissions resulting from the volcanic activity.

DSWD FO VI disbursed a total of PHP9.88 million, with each family receiving PHP5,775 in assistance.

The payout was conducted simultaneously in coordination with the respective Local Government Units (LGUs).

Also present in the distribution is DSWD Field Office 6 Regional Director Arwin O. Razo.

The Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) is a key intervention of DSWD that complements the provision of in-kind assistance through unconditional cash support to the victims of disasters and emergencies.

The provision of cash empowers the affected population to decide on their own needs using available resources.

“Even as we continue to provide family food packs, the emergency cash transfer is a crucial form of assistance that will help our displaced families in meeting their specific and urgent needs. With this cash aid, they are given the means to support themselves more effectively as they endure this difficult period,” said Arwin O. Razo.

“DSWD remains ready to support our communities in times of need,” he added.

DSWD6 continues to work closely with LGUs and partner agencies to monitor the situation and scale up necessary interventions.

The safety and well-being of the IDPs remain the agency’s top priority amid the ongoing Kanlaon crisis./jam