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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider DSWD to continue medical, burial assistance during 10-day 'ayuda’ ban — spox

DSWD to continue medical, burial assistance during 10-day 'ayuda’ ban — spox

Published Apr 28, 2025 08:44 am

The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Monday, April 28 assured that it will continue to provide medical and burial assistance despite the 10-day ban on “ayuda” or aid distribution imposed by the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

DSWD spokesperson Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao confirmed that the ban, which will be enforced from May 2 to May 10 in preparation for the May 12 elections, prohibits the distribution of government aid, except for medical and burial assistance.

“While our Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) and Ayuda sa Kapos Ang Kita Program (AKAP) are among the government aid that have been placed under the ayuda ban, the Comelec has given exemption to our medical and burial aid provisions,” Dumlao explained.

The exemption was formalized through a Comelec memorandum issued on March 18.

Dumlao noted that Comelec’s decision is significant, as the assistance remains essential for Filipinos, regardless of the election season.

She reassured that the DSWD would comply with all Comelec conditions during the exemption, including ensuring that elected officials or candidates do not distribute the assistance.

“The DSWD is firm on ensuring that our safeguards are fully implemented to protect all of our programs and services from any form of political partisanship,” she said.

Medical and burial assistance, provided either in cash or through a guarantee letter, will be subject to the evaluation of social workers.

In 2024, medical aid was one of the top three most requested services under AICS, which assisted over 7 million individuals.

Related Tags

DSWD May 2025 elections AYUDA Matalinong boto 2025
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