Palace gives DSWD passing grade on cash aid distribution

Malacañang on Monday said it was satisfied with the performance of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in connection with the distribution of COVID-19 emergency cash assistance to low-income households.

In a televised briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said the DSWD passed the Palace’s assessment despite delays attributed to the verification of beneficiaries.

“Siguro po hindi magna cum laude ang grade, pero pasado naman po,” Roque explained.

“Gayunpaman, humihingi po kami ng abiso kung nagkaroon po ng inconvenience doon sa mahahabang pila. Pero I can assure you po na nakipag-coordinate naman po ang DSWD doon sa ating FSPs [financial service providers] at saka kino-communicate naman po natin sa ating mga recipients na hindi naman kinakailangang mag-unahan para kunin iyong kanilang mga pera.”

He assured the public that the next round of cash releases under the Social Amelioration Program will be faster through partner FSPs.

The DSWD reported last Saturday that 13.28 million target beneficiaries had received the second tranche of the cash aid, which ranged from P5,000 to 8,000 as mandated by the Bayanihan to Heal as One Act. The first tranche was released in April and May.

The proposed Bayanihan to Recover as One Act also provides a cash subsidy ranging from P5,000 to P8,000 to vulnerable sectors.

The bill is now awaiting the signature of President Rodrigo Duterte. — DVM, GMA News