Salceda seeks exemption of DSWD programs from Comelec spending ban

Albay 2nd District Representative Joey Salceda asked the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to seek an exemption from the public spending ban during elections to continue its emergency financial aid to poor families during the pandemic.

Under Commission on Election Resolution No. 10747, a certificate of exemption is needed to implement activities and programs on social welfare projects and services amid the public spending ban from March 25 to May 8, 2022.

"The times are extraordinary, and we cannot afford a slowdown in emergency and crisis aid, particularly the Assistance for Individuals in Crisis Situations of the DSWD. We also cannot afford delays in the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program or 4Ps and other social amelioration programs,” Salceda said in a statement.

“Otherwise, we will definitely see a slowdown in recovery. We’ve had enough slowdowns this year," he added.

However, the Resolution indicated that it may exempt “such other expenses as the Commission may authorize after due notice and hearing.”

Salcedo said he already wrote to DSWD Secretary Rolando Bautista to file a petition before COMELEC to exempt all DSWD aid transactions from the prohibition.—LDF, GMA News