Over 75% of ECQ cash aid distributed in NCR — Abalos

Around 75% of the cash assistance has already been distributed to beneficiaries affected by the enhanced community quarantine in the National Capital Region, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority chairperson Benhur Abalos said Monday.

At the Go Negosyo forum, Abalos said the information came from the 17 local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila. “The LGUs have distributed about 75.18% on the average,” he said.

Abalos said the distribution of the social assistance to beneficiaries has been peaceful so far and no super spreader event has occurred.

Metro Manila was placed under ECQ from August 6 to 20 in light of the transmission of the Delta coronavirus variant in the country. Under ECQ protocol, only essential trips and essential industries such as food and medicine are allowed to operate.

Around 11 million NCR residents will benefit from the cash assistance.

Beginning August 21 until August 31, Metro Manila and Laguna were placed under the modified enhanced community quarantine

Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque said that under MECQ, indoor, al fresco dine-in services are prohibited.

Roque added that personal care services including beauty salons, beauty parlors, barbershops and nail spas are not allowed in the metropolis. Religious gatherings must also be limited to virtual activities.

The Department of Budget and Management earlier released P10.894 billion to cover the financial assistance of affected individuals and households in the NCR.

President Rodrigo Duterte approved a total of P3.693 billion additional budget for the cash assistance program for Metro Manila, Bataan, and Laguna.

The social assistance will be P1,000 per individual or up to P4,000 maximum per household. — RSJ, GMA News