Lhes, I am included in financial assistance, and the payout will be on Wednesday, my sister-in-law told me when we met last Sunday at the church.
Wow, good for you, I replied, as I was never included in such. I only moved here last year and have never joined any Brgy activities. Not expecting it at all.
However, while Caleb and I were already in bed at night, she called to inform me that I was included.
Oh? Really? That was surprising. Are you sure?
She forwarded the screenshot of their conversation. That was amazing, and we will be receiving 3,000, or around $54.
So, yesterday, we left home around 7:30 in the morning. Yup, quite early, but it was not a problem since Caleb wakes up around six most of the time. His husband drove us to the venue. Yep, I brought my son as no one could care for him.
When we arrived, there were already people in line for the attendance check.
The venue was a covered gym, and as far as I know, the land was the property of a certain politician. Now, it is usually used by a party list.
It was huge, enclosed by a high wall, and impossible to get in and out without a gate unless you were a pro.
There are three big metal ceiling fans to avoid humidity.
Free coffee and pandesal to everyone who is starving.
Monoblock chairs were more than enough for everyone.
When settled, we were given a DSWD form and a stab number.
While waiting for the DSWD employee, local government aspirants went on stage individually to introduce themselves. There are no more other details as it is not yet the campaign period.
So the financial assistance I am about to receive was AICS - assistance to individuals in crisis situation.
Honestly speaking, this made me think am I qualified?
Last month, the Brgy asked us to submit our National ID. I was skeptical and had no plan to comply. Why? I can't leave home to have my ID photocopied.
Thus, knowing this very accommodating sister-in-law of mine, I went to our house, took my ID, and did the job—even the one who submitted it in Brgy 😆.
I am unaware of how they evaluate me; I am unemployed.
After verification of the details versus my valid ID, I am now waiting for the cash release.
Thus, I only noticed that it was P5,000 or $87!
This could be used to buy a plane ticket to go home with Caleb!
The release took some time as it wasn't organized at first. Many asked for favors to be catered to immediately for various reasons aside from priorities such as PWD and senior citizens. Thankful, after some time, it was resolved.
When it was my turn, I observed that DSWD employees were fast; it was a matter of minutes only.
Got mine! Thank you DSWD and local government for processing.
Summer is here! See the blue sky at past eleven in the morning? Striking hot, so the brother-in-law picks up again.
It was a tiring day, but fine as I got some cash.