A motorcycle taxi rider died while waiting in line for cash assistance at the Quezon Memorial Circle on Saturday, prompting immediate response and aid from the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian swiftly ordered personnel to coordinate with the victim’s family and provide support. According to DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao, the agency has already reached out to the rider’s relatives.
“We’ve heard of the unfortunate and sad incident yesterday, and Secretary Rex immediately instructed a team to reach out to the family,” Dumlao said, adding that assistance for funeral arrangements and other needs will be provided.
In an official statement, the DSWD said it is “deeply saddened by this regretful incident” and confirmed that it has coordinated with the hospital, the victim’s family, and his employer. Gatchalian also personally visited the family at the hospital to attend to their immediate concerns.
The agency said assistance has been extended for hospital expenses, funeral and burial arrangements, transportation for family members, and the continuing education of the victim’s daughter.
Authorities have yet to release further details surrounding the circumstances of the rider’s death as the incident remains under review.
