Suspension of Distribution of Emergency Relief Assistance in Upper Bicutan

To diffuse tension and restore peace, the City government has suspended today the distribution of the national government’s emergency relief assistance in Barangay Upper Bicutan. The distribution will resume as soon as the safety of the beneficiaries and the government workers is ensured.

The decision was reached after several persons who are NOT in the SAP 1 and SAP 2 lists of cash aid beneficiaries stormed the venue for the distribution and threatened and attempted to hurt our social workers, security staff, and policemen.

We reiterate that the national government’s directive is clear: those who are in the SAP1 and SAP2 lists will be prioritized for the financial assistance from the national government; other vulnerable groups like low-income individuals and those who are severely affected by the ECQ are to follow but subject to availability of funds. The City cannot add beneficiaries to the lists without violating the prescribed rules.

The City understands the hardships that COVID-19 has brought upon everyone. That is why since the lockdown started last year, the City has been extending financial assistance, food packs, and hygiene kits to various sectors, INCLUDING those who are not in the SAP list of beneficiaries. Rest assured that the City will continue extending assistance for as long as its resources permit it.

We appeal to our residents to remain calm and to respect the rules laid down by the National Government. More importantly, we appeal to our residents not to threaten or harm in any way our social workers, security staff, and policemen who are all working hard and risking their own health and safety to distribute the assistance to their fellow Taguigeños.

We have achieved so much in our battle against COVID-19 because of your cooperation, patience, and understanding. We can win this battle only if we continue working together.