President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday led the distribution of livelihood assistance to Aeta farming communities in Porac, Pampanga, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to the long-term welfare and empowerment of indigenous peoples.
Speaking during the turnover ceremony held in Katutubo Village, Barangay Planas, President Marcos said the government remains determined to deliver continued support that will bring lasting improvement to the lives of indigenous Filipinos.
“Ito po ay bahagi lamang ng aming mas mahabaang programa. Hindi po ito lamang. Patuloy po kung ano ‘yung pangangailangan po na makakapagpaganda, magdadala nang kaunting ginhawa sa buhay ninyo,” the President said. “Asahan po ninyo na lagi po kaming nandito na tumutulong sa inyo.”
A total of 127 beneficiaries received carabaos and farm tools under the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Pag-abot Program, implemented in partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) and the local government of Porac.
President Marcos also announced that nearly 1,200 beneficiaries from Barangays Planas and Camias would receive ₱10,000 in cash aid each from the DSWD.
The Aeta communities primarily depend on farming, crop cultivation, and small-scale livestock production. The President underscored the vital role of supporting their agricultural livelihood and encouraged them to seek assistance whenever needed.
“Kami po ay laging naghahanap ng paraan na kung papaano pang tumulong. Kaya pagka mayroon kayong pangangailangan, huwag kayong magdadalawang-isip na humingi,” he said.
The DSWD’s Pag-abot Program aims to assist vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals and families by facilitating their reintegration into their communities and improving their access to government services.
