Executive Secretary Ralph Recto led the rollout of the national government’s “Bawat Barangay Makikinabang” program in Laguna on Friday, September 11, providing ₱200,000 in financial assistance to each of the province’s 681 barangays.
The program was held at the Laguna Sports Complex and was attended by local government officials, mayors, members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan, barangay officials, and residents from various parts of the province.
The financial assistance amounts to a total of ₱136.2 million, which is intended to support community projects, livelihood initiatives, employment-related activities, and other needs identified at the barangay level.
Also included in the program is the Presidential Scholars initiative, which aims to provide five scholars from every barangay as part of the national government’s effort to expand educational opportunities for young Filipinos.
Recto said the program is intended to ensure that government assistance reaches communities across the province.
“In the 681 barangays of Laguna, we want to ensure that no community is left behind—not only in terms of financial assistance but also in providing opportunities for our youth,” Recto said.
He added that the initiative goes beyond financial assistance, as it is also expected to benefit sectors such as persons with disabilities (PWDs), solo parents, and other communities in need of government support.
Laguna Governor Sol Aragones welcomed the program and expressed her appreciation to the national government for responding to the needs of local communities and providing additional opportunities for young people in the province.
Aragones described the assistance as a significant opportunity for barangay leaders to implement projects that directly respond to the needs of their constituents, while the scholarship component could provide life-changing opportunities for qualified students.
“The name of the program truly reflects its purpose: Bawat Barangay Makikinabang,” Aragones said.
The event drew a large number of local officials and residents, highlighting the participation of communities from across Laguna. Local mayors, provincial board members, and hundreds of barangay officials also attended the gathering.
“Ambulance on the Go” highlighted
During the event, Recto also recognized the provincial government’s health initiatives, including the “Ambulance on the Go” program.
Recto commended the Laguna provincial government under Aragones for implementing programs that translate government plans into actual services for residents.
The provincial government said the ambulance program is expected to begin operating in Laguna’s Fourth District in October.
The initial rollout will involve 30 ambulances, with the fleet expected to increase to 40 and potentially expand further as the program progresses.
The initiative is aimed at bringing emergency and medical transport services closer to communities, particularly those that may have limited access to immediate medical assistance.
The national government’s financial assistance program, together with the provincial government’s health and education initiatives, is expected to provide additional support to communities and residents across Laguna.
