JOLO, Sulu — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. graced the Sulu Provincial Capitol on Friday as he led the distribution of cash assistance amounting to P10,000 each to 10,000 deserving beneficiaries from the agriculture sector and the local family communities.

In his address, Marcos underscored the vital role of the cash assistance, emphasizing its significance as a government subsidy in response to the challenges posed by El Niño.

"Narito kami ngayon upang ihatid sa inyo ang tulong ng pamahalaan, umaagapay sa inyong pagbangon mula sa mga pagsubok na dala ng El Niño, at upang mapakinggan ang inyong mga suliranin (We are here now to deliver to you the assistance of the government, to support you in your recovery from the challenges brought by El Niño, and to listen to your concerns)," the President said in his speech.

Marcos at the same time lauded the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform for their unwavering support, particularly in providing essential machinery to 17 farmers' associations within the province.

"Kasama din natin ang Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform na maghahandog sa inyo ng karagdagang kagamitan sa pagsasaka (We are also accompanied by the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Agrarian Reform, who will provide you with additional farming equipment)," added Marcos.

The President also acknowledged the pivotal role of the local government unit of Sulu, and highlighted their dedicated efforts in enhancing the lives of the Tausug people.

He praised the collective spirit of collaboration and unity that has been instrumental in driving progress and prosperity in the region.

He also cited the indispensable contribution of these hardworking individuals in providing sustenance for the nation, calling them the backbone of the agricultural industry.

Marcos assured that both his office and the local government units would remain accessible and responsive to the needs of the farmers and fisherfolk in the province.

Saddam Abun, one of the beneficiaries, extended his heartfelt thanks to the Office of the President and the Bangsamoro government for the cash assistance and machinery provided to the local farmers and fisherfolk.

"All praise be to Allah, first and foremost, we thank Allah and then those who spearheaded this program where they provided cash assistance and the necessary tools for farming and poultry care," said Abun.

Present during the event were key officials, including Special Assistant to the President Antonio Lagdameo Jr., Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr., Social Welfare and Development Secretary Rex Gatchalian, Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., and Presidential Communications Office Secretary Cheloy Garafil.

The Chief Executive's visit to Sulu stands as a beacon of hope and solidarity, symbolizing a new chapter of progress and prosperity for the resilient communities of the BARMM.