In accordance to Proclamation No. 229 of the President or the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) for the management of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) and with reminders prior to the scheduled payout, Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program beneficiaries strictly observed the protocols of social distancing and mass gathering in withdrawing their cash grants starting today, 24 March 2020.

The Department of Social Welfare and Development Field Office 1 (DSWD FO 1) in coordination with the Local Government Units (LGUs) pushed through with the conduct of payouts regionwide and requested the Land Bank of the Philippines that all of its Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in the Region be always online and have enough cash to provide much needed social safety net in this time of national health emergency. The beneficiaries can also withdraw their cash grants from any ATM subject to minimal charges and pay in establishments with Point of Sale (POS) for the purchase of needed goods. LGUs provided free vehicles to ferry beneficiaries to and from their houses and ensured their safety by extending logistical support and additional workforce in the payout.

There are 22 LGUs in the Region that have started their payout today. On the other hand, 44 Local Chief Executives decided to pursue the payout after the ECQ while some will start tomorrow until 12 April 2020. (by: Jaesem Ryan A. Gaces, Information Officer II/Pantawid Pamilya)