A total of 1,900 residents of Arayat received food packs from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and the Pampanga provincial government as assistance to communities affected by persistent rains.

The relief distribution was led by Pampanga Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda in coordination with DSWD Region III Regional Director Venus Rebuldela.

Of the beneficiaries, 1,000 residents came from Barangay San Juan Baño, while another 900 received assistance in Barangay San Nicolas.

Among those assisted were farmers whose livelihoods were affected by the continuous rainfall and damage to their crops.

Michael Sigua, president of the Mt. Arayat Upland Farmers Association Inc., said the assistance provided significant relief to farmers dealing with losses from the rains.

“Maraming salamat po Gov. Nanay at DSWD sa tulong po ninyo sa amin. Malaking tulong po ito lalo na naapektuhan po ang aming mga pananim,” Sigua said.

Also involved in the relief effort were Board Member Atty. Claire Lim, Provincial Social Welfare and Development Office head Fe Manarang, Provincial Engineering Office head Noli Pangan, Provincial Government Environment and Natural Resources Office head Arthur Punsalan, and barangay officials from the two communities.

The provincial government and DSWD continue to provide assistance to residents affected by the ongoing weather conditions.