The Mandaue City Legal Office has initiated a formal investigation into the tragic death of a 31-year-old woman during a validation process for the Emergency Cash Transfer (ECT) payout organized by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). This development follows the woman's collapse while waiting in line for aid verification, prompting city officials to take immediate action.
Incident Details and Immediate Response
According to reports, the beneficiary, identified as Mary Christ Cuizon, fainted at the gymnasium in Barangay Opao while queuing for a P5,000 ECT verification. This program was intended for victims of Typhoon Tino, which struck Cebu, including Mandaue City, in November 2025. Cuizon, a mother of four who had recently given birth six months prior, was pronounced dead despite efforts to administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR).
Her father has expressed a desire to review closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage from the gym to better understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. He claimed that nearly 30 minutes elapsed before his daughter received assistance, raising concerns about the timeliness of the medical response.
Official Statements and Investigation Launch
City Administrator Atty. Gonzalo "Sally" Malig-on confirmed in a statement to SunStar Cebu on Sunday, March 15, 2026, that the city government has begun taking steps following a request for an official incident report. A formal order directing the City Legal Office to conduct the investigation is scheduled to be issued on Monday, March 16.
When questioned about potential lapses in providing immediate medical aid, Malig-on indicated that those found responsible could face reprimands, suspension, or other penalties under existing administrative rules. He further emphasized that internal measures will be implemented to improve the process for future events.
Assistance Provided to the Family
In an official statement, DSWD 7 announced that Cuizon's family has received P10,000 in food assistance, with burial aid to follow once the death certificate is available. Additionally, the City Social Welfare Development Office provided P30,000 in cash assistance to the family, while Cuizon's sibling is set to receive ECT assistance amounting to P5,250.
This incident has highlighted critical issues in the administration of emergency aid programs, underscoring the need for enhanced safety protocols and swift medical interventions during large-scale distributions. The investigation aims to address these concerns and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
