Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman approves additional funds for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The funds aim to strengthen social protection measures for marginalized and vulnerable sectors, in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive.
The DSWD program provides medical, burial, transportation, education, food, and financial assistance to individuals or families in need.
The release of additional funding is supported by the special provision in the 2023 General Appropriations Act.
Unprogrammed Appropriations will be utilized for infrastructure projects, social programs, and financial aid to indigent individuals or families.
Funding availability is contingent upon new or excess revenue collections.
DBM releases P3 B in aid to support families in need
At a glance
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) said an additional P3 billion will be earmarked to support individuals and families encountering crisis situations.
In a statement, Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman announced the approval of additional funds to cover the funding deficiency for the Department of Social Welfare and Development's (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
“In adherence with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive, we will continue to strengthen social protection measures for our kababayans, especially the marginalized and vulnerable sectors,” she said.
“Alam at naiintindihan po namin na malaking tulong po ang programang ito sa mga kababayan nating nangangailangan (We know and we understand that this program is a huge help to our fellow Filipinos who are in need)," she added.
The DSWD program provides medical assistance, burial, transportation, education, food, or financial assistance for other support services or needs of a person or family.
The release of additional funding is anchored on the special provision in the 2023 General Appropriations Act on the use of Unprogrammed Appropriations.
It states that a substantial amount shall be used to support infrastructure projects and social programs, including financial assistance to indigent individuals or families.
It also provides that the amounts can only be availed when there are new or excess revenue collections.