DSWD starts cash-for-work program for typhoon victims

The Department of Social Welfare and Development has started implementing cash-for-work or food-for-work program for families displaced by typhoons "Pedring" (Nesat) and "Quiel" (Nalgae) in five regions. In a news release, the DSWD said its regional offices are to implement the program in Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, Metro Manila, and Cordillera. Under the program, beneficiaries will receive cash based on the prevailing regional wages, or food in exchange for doing community projects. Such projects may include reconstruction of damaged houses and community facilities, clean-up and garbage collection. Those still staying in evacuation centers may get cash or food in exchange for maintaining cleanliness in the premises, the DSWD said. As of 6 a.m. Monday, the DSWD said it has provided P66.67 million in relief assistance to affected local government units, including P34.16 million in Central Luzon, the hardest hit area. The DSWD said 32 towns were devastated in Central Luzon, including: