In continuation of the efforts to address the needs of locally stranded individuals (LSIs) in Metro Manila, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), together with other government agencies, held a Hatid Tulong Grand Send-Off activity on July 4 and 5, 2020 at the Quirino Grandstand.

Hatid Tulong was a transport assistance initiative by different national government agencies to aid LSIs as they return to their respective provinces. More than 2,000 LSIs comprised of students, workers, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), and local tourists availed of the free transportation assistance.

The first day of the send-off catered to LSIs returning to Mindanao, while the second day assisted stranded locals traveling back to the Visayas and Northern Luzon.

As part of the health and safety protocol, the LSIs underwent rapid testing from the Department of Health (DOH) for the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) before they received a travel authorization from the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

Meanwhile, DSWD provided financial assistance to the LSIs under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS). DSWD Field Offices will also distribute hot meals or Family Food Packs (FFPs) to the returnees once they reach their hometowns.

The LSIs are also required to undergo a second screening and a mandatory 14-day quarantine in their respective hometowns to ensure that they are free from COVID-19.

DSWD will continue its coordination with concerned agencies to ensure the provision of assistance to LSIs. ###