Hundreds of desperate Filipinos queue for financial help during pandemic

Hundreds of desperate Filipinos queue for financial help during pandemic

Footage shows Filipino locals flouting social distancing measures as they gathered in long queues while waiting for their turn to receive financial aid from the government.

One of the locals, Steve Claude, said he did not expect the massive crowds but he had no choice as he badly needed the cash assistant to get through the remaining days of the community quarantine.

Steve, who filmed the video last Friday (May 9) in Laoag City, said: "It has been hard for me because I am one of the no-work no-pay workers.

I am taking my chances here despite no social distancing observed." The Philippines' social welfare department has rolled out a financial assistance program to citizens who are badly affected by restrictions being enforced to stop the spread of the Coronavirus Covid-19 pandemic.