The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reiterated that mechanisms are in place to protect its programs and services from political interference.
DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said on Thursday, Jan. 9 that these safeguards would ensure the agency’s compliance with the conditions set by the Commission on Elections (Comelec) when it granted an exemption for 28 DSWD programs from the poll spending ban.
On Jan. 7, Comelec issued a memorandum approving DSWD’s request for an exemption of 28 social welfare programs from Section 261 (v)(2) of the Omnibus Election Code (OEC).
Some of the programs covered by the Comelec exemption are the Ayuda Para sa Kapos and Kita Program (AKAP), Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), Sustainable Livelihood Program (SLP), Services for Residential and Center-based Clients; Supplementary Feeding Program, Pag-Abot Program, Walang Gutom Program, Tara Basa! Tutoring Program, and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS).
The memorandum also outlines three conditions that the DSWD must adhere to: No candidates or politicians should be present during the distribution of aid, in any form; the DSWD must follow its publicly committed procurement guidelines; and the DSWD, its personnel, and partners must strictly observe these guidelines.
Dumlao said one of the agency’s key strategies to prevent political interference is educating the public about its programs and services.
“One of the key pieces of information we provide is about the programs and services offered by the DSWD. We make it clear that the assistance provided by the government has no involvement from politicians or election candidates,” she explained.
Dumlao said the approach empowers the public and voters to make informed decisions and reduces their vulnerability to political manipulation.
She assured that the agency is ready to address any grievances regarding violations of standard practices.
“Please inform our office so we can conduct the necessary validation and investigation. If needed, we will elevate the matter to the appropriate agency for proper action,” she said.