Manila: Only individuals earning below the minimum wage are now eligible for financial assistance under the revised guidelines of the Ayuda sa Kapos at Kita Program (AKAP), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian announced on Thursday. At a press briefing, Gatchalian said the changes align with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s veto message in the General Appropriations Act (GAA), ensuring more targeted interventions that promote long-term improvement for beneficiaries while preventing misuse.
According to Philippines News Agency, the term previously used was 'low income,' but it has now been refined to 'below minimum wage,' making the criteria more specific. This definition will adhere to the minimum wage rates set by the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs). However, Gatchalian clarified that the financial assistance will be needs-based, covering areas such as medical, funeral, and food assistance, as well as cash relief for displaced or laid-off workers.
Gatchalian emphasized that social welfare must have a purpose, and DSWD social workers will process AKAP applications, determining the amount of aid based on individual needs. The guidelines also aim to reduce concerns regarding political interference, particularly with the upcoming mid-year elections. The revised rules prohibit campaign materials and political presence during aid distribution to ensure impartiality.
The DSWD chief stated that referrals from lawmakers or local officials will not guarantee approval, as the agency's social workers will conduct the vetting process. He encouraged Filipinos in need to visit the nearest DSWD office with the necessary documents. To promote transparency and accountability, the DSWD plans to publish monthly updates on its website, listing individuals who received assistance under AKAP by province.
In its inaugural year from January to December 2024, AKAP assisted approximately 4.2 million near-poor Filipinos, utilizing PHP26.157 billion, or 99.31 percent of its PHP26.7 billion budget. For 2025, the program aims to support 5 million below-minimum wage earners with a PHP26-billion allocation.
