Iloilo: Over 1 million residents in Western Visayas have received approximately PHP4.98 billion in government assistance aimed at individuals facing crisis situations or those affected by rising inflation.
According to Philippines News Agency, Wesley Angelo Barayuga, head of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) crisis intervention section, announced during a news forum that from January 1 to the present, 664,998 individuals, or 187.02 percent of the targeted 335,568, benefited from the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program. Additionally, 500,679 individuals, representing 232 percent of the intended 214,933, were supported through the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP).
AICS acts as a temporary measure to aid individuals and families recovering from unexpected life challenges or crises. DSWD data revealed that over PHP2.98 billion has been distributed via AICS as of November 20, with the largest portion, PHP1.8 billion, allocated for food assistance. Other allocations included PHP579.13 million for medical aid, PHP286.54 million for funerals, PHP188.4 million for education, PHP102.89 million for cash relief, and PHP57,000 for transportation.
Moreover, the DSWD distributed over PHP132.79 million for AICS through nine Malasakit Centers in the region. DSWD OIC Regional Director Joselito Estember addressed concerns about a proposed temporary halt of off-site AICS payouts in Iloilo City due to alleged irregularities in distribution, emphasizing the rigorous validation process led by the DSWD to ensure beneficiary eligibility.
Estember noted that while off-site payouts are carefully managed, events post-payout are beyond their control. He also stated that walk-in applicants are welcome at their satellite and extension offices, explaining that AICS is based on situational needs rather than a regular program with fixed allocations.
Furthermore, the DSWD has released over PHP2 billion for the AKAP as of November 20, covering cash relief, food, funeral, and medical assistance. Additionally, over PHP70 million has been disbursed through Malasakit Centers.
