Red Cross distributes cash aid to over 200 families in Tondo

The Philippine Red Cross on Friday released financial aid to more than 200 families in Tondo, Manila, according to its chairman and CEO Senator Richard Gordon.

Gordon led the distribution of the P3,500 cash grant to beneficiaries from Barangays 91 and 234. He said Manila is the third out of the 18 cities in the country that has received such support from the humanitarian organization—Mandaluyong and San Juan being the first two.

Of the total P70 million budget for Red Cross' multi-purpose cash assistance, P4.5 million has been earmarked for 1,300 families in Manila, he said.

"Ito ay kaunting tulong mula sa Red Cross upang ang ating mga kababayan ay matulungan nating makabangong muli at magkaroon ng pagkakakitaan habang hindi pa natin nalalampasan ang pandemyang kinahaharap natin ngayon,” he added.

The organization recently provided free swab tests, meals, hygiene kits, and prepaid loads to some 180 locally stranded individuals staying at the Port Area in Manila.

As of July 2, Manila is the city with the third highest COVID-19 infections in the country at 2,309, following Cebu City and Quezon City.

Over 38,000 COVID-19 cases have been reported nationwide. — Dona Magsino/RSJ, GMA News