The city government of Manila has kicked off its annual Christmas gift box distribution, providing support to 695,000 households and 175,000 senior citizens in the city. Mayor Maria Sheila Lacuna-Pangan announced that the distribution of these gift boxes will take place from December 1-12, with two rounds each day, covering four districts at a time.
In addition to the gift boxes, the city government has also started distributing financial assistance to various groups. This includes 184,000 senior citizens, 33,216 solo parents, and 17,204 persons with disabilities (PWDs) in Manila. This initiative aims to provide much-needed support to vulnerable members of the community during the holiday season.
To further enhance the festive atmosphere, a Grand Bazaar will be held at the Mehan Garden from December 11 to January 1, running from 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. This event will offer a wide range of products and entertainment options for residents and visitors alike to enjoy.
Ensuring the safety and security of the public, the Manila Police will deploy 703 officers to 52 places of worship during dawn masses, which begin on December 16. Additionally, close to 1,000 police personnel will be assigned to major streets, 302 to transportation hubs and terminals, 537 to commercial areas, and 848 in other locations where large crowds are expected during the Christmas season.
To accommodate the influx of tourists and shoppers, the city government will designate additional parking spaces, particularly in the areas of Divisoria, Quiapo, Rizal Ave., Blumentritt, Tutuban, and Recto. This will help alleviate traffic congestion and facilitate smooth movement for both residents and visitors.
To ensure the safety and well-being of everyone, the Manila Police District (MPD) has taken proactive measures. MPD District Arnold Thomas Commander stated during a forum on Tuesday that they have posted several advisories and warnings on their official pages to inform the public. Additionally, public address systems have been installed in different areas, such as Quiapo, Divisoria, and Blumentritt, enabling people to easily report any untoward incidents.
The city government of Manila is committed to providing a festive and secure environment for residents and visitors during the holiday season. Through the distribution of gift boxes and financial assistance, as well as the deployment of police personnel and the designation of additional parking spaces, the city aims to ensure that everyone can enjoy the holiday festivities safely and comfortably.
By prioritizing the needs of the community and implementing measures to address potential challenges, the city government of Manila demonstrates its dedication to creating a joyful and inclusive environment for all during this special time of year.
Source: The Manila Times
