4,000 retrenched MEZ workers get cash aid from DSWD

CEBU, Philippines —  The Department of Social Welfare and Development has distributed a total of P15 million to 3,600 terminated workers of Sports City Incorporated at the Mactan Economic Zone as of 2:20 p.m. yesterday, said DSWD Undersecretary for Inclusive and Sustainable Peace, Alan A. Tanjusay.

Tanjusay, together with DSWD-7 Regional Director Shalaine Marie Lucero, DSWD Assistant Secretary Ma. Evelyn B. Macapobre, and Assistant Regional Director for Operations Juanito C. Cantero led the distribution of Financial Assistance and Family Food Packs (FFPs) to the affected workers.

DSWD leads this multi-stakeholder project that provides assistance and intervention to displaced workers.

Tanjusay told The Freeman that they expect to finish the payout before 5 p.m. yesterday.

Tanjusay said that the retrenched workers will be given P2,000 to P5,000 each during the payout.

Workers of garment firms Mactan Apparels, Inc., Metro Wear, Inc., Globalwear Manufacturing, Inc., Feeder Apparel Corporation, and Vertex One Apparel Phils. Inc.—all owned by Sports City—were affected in the largest termination yet this year.

Sports City is the biggest employer in the Mactan Economic Zone and supplies to global garment brands. —GMR (FREEMAN)