The Mandaue City Government has announced an extension for its massive holiday gift-giving initiative, ensuring thousands of families receive support for the Christmas season.
Reaching Over 90% of Beneficiaries
Mayor Thadeo Jovito "Jonkie" Ouano reported that the Gugma sa Pasko Noche Buena Packs distribution has already reached more than 90 percent of its intended recipients. He expressed particular joy that for many, this marks the first time they are receiving such Christmas food assistance from the city.
"We are very happy that even more than 90 percent of our beneficiaries are receiving these Christmas food packs, and this is the first time we have done this here in Mandaue City," Mayor Ouano stated. He highlighted the program as one of the city's most inclusive holiday efforts to date.
Aid for Families Affected by Calamities
The mayor emphasized the critical timing of the distribution, coming after a year where many families grappled with the impact of recent typhoons and an earthquake. The food packs are designed to bring a sense of comfort and hope during the season of giving.
"Because of the calamities we experienced, the typhoons and the earthquake, at least they now have something to look forward to this Christmas," Ouano explained. He added that the city aimed to provide residents with something positive to anticipate despite the year's challenges.
Ouano credited the success of the program to a collective effort, specifically thanking the Mandaue City Council and Vice Mayor Glenn Bercede for approving the necessary budget. He also acknowledged the hard work of city departments and barangay officials in implementing the distribution across all communities.
Plans to Institutionalize the Program
Looking to the future, Mayor Ouano has formally requested the City Council to pass an ordinance that would institutionalize the Gugma sa Pasko program. This move aims to ensure the continuity of providing Christmas food packs to residents every year, regardless of changes in city leadership.
"My request to the City Council is to pass an ordinance so this program can be institutionalised. Regardless of who will be sitting in office, the Gugma sa Pasko Christmas food packs should continue," Ouano asserted.
The distribution is based on data from the 2023 City-Based Monitoring System (CBMS), which identified approximately 86,000 beneficiary households. With Christmas just days away, the city has allocated a buffer of around 14,000 unclaimed packs to address any gaps.
Barangay officials and city personnel are conducting joint verification, especially for households where listed beneficiaries may have moved away. Mayor Ouano assured that any verified household that did not receive a pack will be given one, and while some delays may occur, all qualified households should receive their Noche Buena Packs before the New Year.
The Gugma sa Pasko program stands as a cornerstone of the city's efforts to foster unity, compassion, and hope among Mandauehanon during the Christmas season.
