AFP prepared to assist in distribution of SAP’s second tranche, adjusts troop deployment

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) is prepared to provide assistance in the distribution of the second tranche of the cash aid under the national government's social amelioration program.

As stated in the Joint Memorandum Circular 20, the AFP will aid in the handing of cash assistance to qualified beneficiaries in conflict-affected areas as well as geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas.

"The Armed Forces of the Philippines is eager to comply with the President’s directive for the timely and effective distribution of assistance. The AFP treats the Social Amelioration Program with the same importance as the other duties we have on hand," AFP chief General Felimon Santos Jr. said in a statement.

"We join other government agencies in a collaborative effort to 'heal as one' in the battle against COVID-19," Santos added.

Due to this, the AFP has increased its level of preparation and adjusted its troop deployment in order to prevent communist groups and other lawless organizations from disrupting the distribution of SAP aid.

The AFP will also continue to provide technical, administrative, and logistical assistance and will utilize land, air, and sea assets to transport personnel and goods from the Department of Social Welfare and Development when needed.

The military will also join DSWD personnel in responding to grievances about alleged irregularities in the distribution.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government on Tuesday said the distribution of the cash aid began on Wednesday, June 17, in Benguet.

Under the Social Amelioration Program, low-income families will be given a cash subsidy of P5,000 to P8,000 per month for two months to help them cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. — Anna Felicia Bajo/RSJ, GMA News