Leviste Offers Rice Assistance to Families Yet to Receive Government Aid

Batangas Representative Leandro Leviste has stepped in to address the critical issue of unequal aid distribution, pledging a significant personal contribution of one million sacks of rice to families in his district who have been overlooked by government assistance programs. This move comes amidst growing concerns about alleged discrimination in the allocation of aid, a situation Leviste finds deeply saddening and unacceptable.

“

I will give one million sacks of rice for all the families who have not yet received government aid in Batangas, because I am saddened by the discrimination in the distribution of government aid.

Leviste highlighted specific instances where scheduled rice distributions were reportedly canceled, and certain barangays were excluded from receiving promised financial assistance, despite claims that funds were already prepared. He pointed to the "Bawat Bayan Makikinabang" program, launched by President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr., as an initiative that has unfortunately seen discriminatory practices in his district. The lawmaker is calling for a united effort from fellow politicians and local officials to cease political maneuvering in aid distribution and ensure that assistance reaches every family, regardless of their political affiliations.

“

This is my personal contribution, at no cost to government. No need for people to wait for photo-ops, and no one will be excluded.

Speaking to PhilStar, Leviste emphasized that his initiative is a "personal contribution, at no cost to government." This direct approach aims to bypass bureaucratic hurdles and political biases, ensuring that aid reaches those most in need without delay or exclusion. The distribution has already commenced, with initial sacks turned over to parishes and barangay frontliners who were allegedly left out of previous distributions. This proactive measure by Rep. Leviste underscores a commitment to serving his constituents and upholding the principle of equitable assistance, a stark contrast to the alleged political discrimination he is fighting against.

“

I hope my fellow politicians will find it in their conscience to stop discrimination in the distribution of government aid based on politics.