CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY

— Senatorial candidate Luis “Manong Chavit” Singson is pushing a platform that includes a universal basic income (UBI) program called “Chavit 500” following his visit here.

This flagship initiative aims to provide a P500 monthly stipend to all Filipinos aged 18 and above who earn minimum wage or less, especially those without income and Singson said that the proposed platform will be a life-long safety net for underprivileged citizens, offering it as an assistance to ease them up from difficult times.

Singson — who is Number 58 in the Senate ballot — met with local government and barangay officials here as he highlighted the “Chavit 500” alongside other key initiatives including jeepney modernization initiative to promote eco-friendly public transportation and the VBank Initiative, a digital platform designed to improve access to financing for small businesses and farmers.

He narrated the program’s potential to uplift low-income families, bolster education and enhance disaster resilience and committed ensuring the “Chavit 500” will be implemented nationwide if he wins a seat in the Senate.

Singson also stressed that he is ready to address the problems facing Cagayan de Oro City River basin’s deterioration by sending experts here to study its flood control system, even as he vowed to continue his advocacy for environment protection.

He said that is offering his experience in running public-private partnerships to initiate projects that protect the environment, such as large-scale reforestation and rehabilitation.

“These concerns need projects that include additional flood control systems, drainage improvements, and waste management facilities to reduce the incidence of widespread flooding, especially during typhoons,” Singson said.

He also aims to strengthen eco-tourism in Misamis Oriental province, which can provide employment and additional income opportunities for its residents.