DSWD warns public against using fixers for AICS assistance
Courtesy of DSWD
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) reminded the public that fixers are not needed to access services under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
DSWD-Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) Director Edwin Morata said its social workers are fully equipped to assist individuals in need without any intermediaries.
“We don’t need fixers. Because our social workers are trained to assess and assist you to be provided with the right interventions. Second, the fixer will only create further problems and complications for your needs. They may give you information that could put you in greater danger,” he added.
Morata said DSWD offices nationwide remain open and ready to assist those in crisis.
“The doors of the DSWD are always open to those in need,” he added.
He advised individuals to bring the correct information, proper documentation, and coordinate directly with authorized personnel to ensure smooth processing of aid.
The official also warned the public against misinformation spread through unofficial social media channels, urging citizens to rely on the DSWD’s official website and verified accounts for accurate details about the AICS program.
AICS provides a range of assistance beyond medical aid, including burial, transportation, food, and cash relief support.
Morata also noted that financial aid is only one component of the broader program, which also includes psychosocial services under the WiSupport initiative, as well as material assistance like food boxes and assistive devices.
He added that the program is not limited to indigent individuals.
“That’s how progressive our program is. Before, we focused mainly on indigent individuals, but now it is for anyone going through a crisis situation—whether you’re rich or poor, employed or not—as long as your situation affects your ability to solve your own problem, the DSWD will step in to give you a chance to recover, even temporarily, as a stop-gap measure,” Morata said.