THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has already distributed around P300 million worth of educational cash assistance to indigent students, Secretary Erwin Tulfo said.Tulfo said around 66,000 to 68,000 students were given financial aid over the weekend.“So kapag pinagsama po ‘yung kahapon at noong isang Sabado, nasa P300 (million) plus na (ang naipamahagi),” he said.Tulfo earlier said 53,000 students were given financial assistance on the first day of distribution on August 20.The first day of distribution was marred with criticisms due to an unorganized system, as hundreds of people flocked to the DSWD offices, resulting in long lines in violation of the minimum health protocols.Under the program, indigent elementary students will be given P1,000, P2,000 for high school, P3,000 for senior high school and P4,000 for college or vocational students.This aims to cushion the effects of the pandemic and soaring prices of basic commodities amid the resumption of face-to-face classes. (SunStar Philippines)