Senior citizens of Valenzuela receive early Christmas treats
THE early Christmas gift-giving tradition for the elderly in Valenzuela City lives on despite the Covid-19 pandemic. The local government unit (LGU), led by Mayor Rexlon Gatchalian, officially launched its “Pasko sa Hulyo Para Kay Lolo at Lola” on July 17. The gift-giving program benefits a total of 58,014 elderly city residents.
Initsinitialrun,6,353seniorsfrom Barangays Arkong Bato, Balangkas, Bisig, Mabolo, Tagalag, Poblacion, Polo, Pariancillo Villa, Palasan, Isla, Wawang Pulo, and Malanday received two 5-kilogram packs of rice as their earlychristmasgiftfromthelgu.the rice distribution lasted until July 26.
This initiative aims to ensure that the elderly from all 33 barangays of Valenzuela are healthy and properly nourished, especially during the time of the pandemic. Just like the food packspreviouslydistributedbythecity government, “Pasko sa Hulyo” operates under the food voucher distribution system. Door-to-door delivery of the coupons started as early as June.
To ensure that physical distancing and venue capacity are observed during the distribution, the vouchers carry details, such as the redemption site, date, and time.
The LGU said elderly beneficiaries are requested to designate one of their closest relatives to claim the rice packs from the venue only on the day and time assigned to them. Children are strictly prohibited from claiming the rice packs.
The representative must present a valid ID, the “Pasko sa Hulyo” food voucher, the recipient’s ID issued by the Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (Osca), and an authorization letter signed by the senior citizen when redeeming the gift pack.
Claimants are, likewise, required to observe minimum health protocols, such as wearing of face masks and face shields, and standing at least 1 meter away from each other while at the redemption area.
Only elderly residing in Valenzuela and are registered with the Osca on May 7 of this year are qualified to receive the early Christmas treats from the city government.
For a complete list of the schedules and redemption sites, residents can log on to