DBM releases P2 billion to support individuals, families in difficult situations

The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) on Tuesday announced it released P2 billion to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to assist individuals and families in difficult circumstances.

In a statement, the DBM said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman approved the P2-billion Special Allotment Release Order (SARO) on August 8, 2022 for the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS), which forms part of the Protective Services for Individuals and Families in Difficult Circumstances (PSIFDC).

AICS provides integrated services, which include financial assistance for transportation, medical, burial, food, and other support services, to individuals and families in crises, according to the Budget Department.

“Ang pondo ng taumbayan, dapat pong mapakinabangan rin ng taumbayan lalo na sa oras ng peligro (The people should benefit from their own funds, especially in times of difficulties.) The release of this fund is a big help to our kababayans who are caught in difficult situations,” said Pangandaman.

“Maganda ang timing ng karagdagang pondong ito. Gusto nating tulungan ang DSWD para makapagbigay ng tulong at proteksyon sa mga pamilyang nangangailangan,” added the Budget chief.

(The timely release of these funds will help the DSWD provide aid and protection to families in need.)

The DBM said that as of June 30, 2022, the DSWD’s AICS program served over 1.5 million beneficiaries exceeding its annual target of around 1.4 million.

Around 642,348 remaining beneficiaries are projected for 2022.

“Patunay ito na binibigyan prayoridad ng pamahalaan ang pagtulong sa mga vulnerable at disadvantaged sectors. Hindi lip service ang sinabi ng [Pangulong Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos] na walang Pilipino ang maiiwan,” said Pangandaman.

(This is proof that the government prioritizes assisting vulnerable and disadvantaged sectors. President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos' declaration that no Filipino would be left behind was not just lip service.) — DVM, GMA News