Manila: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is proposing a budget of around PHP270 billion for 2027, with the largest allocation earmarked for the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS).

According to Philippines News Agency, this proposal aligns with the DSWD's efforts to bolster the country's social protection programs in accordance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s fifth State of the Nation Address (SONA). DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian, in a recent radio interview, highlighted that the proposed budget allocates approximately PHP100 billion for the 4Ps. This allocation underscores the government's ongoing commitment to assisting poor families in overcoming poverty through education, healthcare, and nutrition.

Gatchalian expressed satisfaction with the preliminary draft of the budget, stating, "Nakita ko yung preliminary draft at masaya naman kami dahil 'yun yung hiningi namin. Sa PHP270 billion or PHP260 billion ng DSWD, PHP100 billion 'yan agad napupunta sa 4Ps." He emphasized that the investment in human capital is crucial to lifting Filipinos out of poverty, noting that 1.6 million families have already graduated from the 4Ps program.

The proposed budget also allocates an estimated PHP30 billion to PHP60 billion for the AICS program, which offers immediate financial assistance to individuals and families in crisis. Gatchalian emphasized that the AICS program serves not only the poor but also individuals from the middle and upper classes who might face unexpected challenges and require government assistance.

Beyond financial aid, the remaining budget will support various social protection initiatives, including the Walang Gutom Program, Pag-abot Program, Project Aruga, and child protection efforts. Gatchalian highlighted the need to strengthen Filipino families in the digital age through programs like the Parent Effectiveness Sessions (PES) and Family Development Sessions (FDS) under 4Ps.

The DSWD also plans to establish five additional regional residential facilities to enhance rehabilitation efforts for children in conflict with the law. Gatchalian noted that the proposed budget reflects the DSWD's dedication to expanding social protection programs that not only provide immediate crisis assistance but also build long-term resilience among vulnerable Filipinos.