As part of assistance packages provided by the BP2 Program, the families received transportation/relocation assistance to cover fares, the hauling of their belongings, and meal allowances.

Before the COVID-19 Pandemic struck, the families stayed in Metro Manila for their livelihood. However, most of them became unemployed due to retrenchment or the permanent closure of their employer’s businesses.

Left unemployed in the middle of the pandemic, the families experienced significant financial constraints. For sustenance, the families relied on support from not only from the government, but also from their relatives.

Further adding to their worries is the constant threat of infection, especially among family members who are most vulnerable, including children, senior citizens, and those with comorbidities.

Considering these circumstances, the families decided to permanently relocate to their home provinces through the BP2 Program.

The returning families will stay either with their relatives or in housing facilities provided by the National Housing Authority (NHA). While the NHA housing facilities are under construction, the families will be provided with rental assistance to ensure that they will have adequate shelter during their relocation.

The 11 families now look forward to a better and brighter future in their home province. Some plan to engage in farming, hog-raising, sari-sari store management, and other available and appropriate income-generating activities.

Through the BP2 Program, they were reunited with their children and relatives. More importantly, they were given a new opportunity to lead a more sustainable life in the province.

The Balik Probinsya, Bagong Pag-asa Program is implemented by the Kapit-bisig Laban sa Kahirapan Comprehensive and Integrated Delivery of Social Services (KALAHI-CIDSS) Program of the DSWD.

With reports from Lea L. Neiva, Social Welfare Officer III, KALAHI- CIDSS NCDDP BP2 Program