Over R500-M aid released for fallen, wounded cops, soldiers
The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has released over
R500 million worth of financial assistance to the beneficiaries of more than 2,000 police officers and soldiers who were wounded or killed in action.
Since June 1, the DILG stated it has facilitated the release a total of P582.5 million in financial assistance to 2,330 beneficiaries of injured and fallen police officers and soldiers.
DILG Officer-in-Charge Secretary Eduardo Año said this was in line with the commitment of President Duterte for a comprehensive social assistance to the police force and military.
Among those who are currently receiving the assistance are the families of six police officers killed in a misencounter with Army troopers in Samar on June 25.
Aside from the said financial aid, a total of R61.5 million have been released to 246 beneficiaries who were given the second tranche upon completion of a capacity building training facilitated by the DILG and the Department of National Defense.
According to Ano, the financial assistance is being provided to the beneficiaries of police officers and soldiers through the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program (CBSP).
Año, a former AFP Chief of Staff, said that the CSBP is one of the "much-needed reform programs" that this administration has turned to reality.
Aside from financial aid, shelter assistance from the National Housing Authority worth R450,000 or provision of R100,000 for housing repair has been distributed to at least 145 beneficiaries as of June 1.
The Department of Health and Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) also provided health care assistance and coverage of hospitalization expenses and maintenance of medicines to some 374 beneficiaries.
Meanwhile, the DILG Chief revealed that the planned inclusion of uniformed personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, and the Philippine Coast Guard in the CSBP coverage was approved during a high-level meeting.
With this, a draft Executive Order is now for the signature and endorsement to the Office of the President.
"This is in recognition of the critical role of uniformed personnel outside the AFP and PNP who also risk their lives in the name of peace and order and public safety," Año said.