Manila: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has allocated approximately PHP12.375 billion for the expanded assistance package under the Unified Package for Livelihood, Industry, Food, and Transport (UPLIFT) Program, according to a statement from Malaca±ang on Thursday. Speaking to reporters, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that the DBM released the Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) and Notice of Cash Allocation on Wednesday to initiate the distribution of extended financial assistance.
According to Philippines News Agency, the release of funds followed President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s announcement regarding the expansion of the government's cash assistance. This initiative aims to help mitigate the effects of Middle East tensions on Filipino families. Castro emphasized the unpredictability of future developments, expressing hope for improvement while highlighting the government's readiness to support those most in need.
Under the expanded UPLIFT Program, around 7.5 million households, or approximately 27.5 million Filipinos, are set to benefit from the cash assistance. The beneficiaries comprise 3.5 million households enrolled in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) and Walang Gutom Program, 2.5 million poor and near-poor households identified through the 2024 Community-Based Monitoring System, and 1.5 million low-income workers and their families listed by the Social Security System.
Eligible beneficiaries will receive PHP2,000 monthly from July to December. Castro noted that the funding will be sourced from available savings under National Budget Circulars 602 and 603, with approval from the Office of the President. She further mentioned that the Department of Social Welfare and Development, along with relevant government agencies, will utilize digital platforms for the distribution of assistance to ensure a faster, more efficient, and more convenient delivery process.
Castro relayed the President's directive for government agencies to ensure that assistance is delivered efficiently, quickly, and conveniently to beneficiaries using digital platforms. In response to inquiries about extending assistance to the middle class, Castro stated that the government remains focused on prioritizing sectors most affected by rising costs, while also implementing measures to control increases in transport fares and commodity prices.
She concluded by stating that the government would continue to assess the need for additional assistance, depending on available funds and the ongoing situation in the Gulf region.
