Manila: Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian on Wednesday presented the agency's priority programs before members of the House of Representatives as he defended the DSWD's proposed PHP223.2 billion budget for 2026, including allocations for attached and supervised agencies.
According to Philippines News Agency, the proposed budget aims to sustain flagship programs such as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), Supplementary Feeding Program (SFP), and Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP). For the 4Ps, the 2026 budget under the NEP is PHP113 billion, of which PHP98.4 billion is for cash grants, including the First 1,000-Day grants for pregnant and lactating women.
Gatchalian highlighted stories of empowerment from 4Ps graduates who have become professionals, teachers, and national exam topnotchers. Partnerships with private and government institutions have strengthened employment opportunities for 4Ps households in line with the Trabaho sa Bagong Pilipinas Thrust.
The agency plans to expand the SFP's coverage to ensure more children receive daily meals supporting their growth and learning. The continued implementation of the Walang Gutom Program (WGP) aims to promote proper nutrition and address involuntary hunger.
The Pag-Abot Program, a new initiative, assists families and individuals in street situations to return to their homes and reintegrate into their communities. For 2026, PHP807 million is requested, with PHP586 million for grants and PHP66.6 million for outreach operations, having already reached 1,711 beneficiaries as of July 25.
The Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program (TBTP) was highlighted as a reformatted education assistance initiative engaging college students and youth development workers as tutors, while providing cash-for-work support to parents. As of July 2025, TBTP has deployed over 6,500 tutors and 3,200 youth workers, reaching more than 55,000 learners.
Gatchalian stressed the DSWD's role in disaster response, ensuring immediate relief and resilience-building for communities affected by calamities. He requested support for the budget proposal to uphold the welfare of every Filipino family, consistent with the administration's thrust of Bawat Buhay Mahalaga.
Several members of the House of Representatives expressed support for increasing the DSWD's budget. Negros Occidental 6th District Rep. Mercedes Alvarez expressed disappointment over the reduced 2026 SLP budget and urged fellow committee members to advocate for its increase. Southern Leyte 1st District Rep. Roger Mercado also voiced his support for the DSWD, urging the appropriations committee to consider further budget increases, highlighting the department's performance and impact on Filipino lives.
