ILOILO City – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Region 6 has warned the public against individuals or groups deducting a portion of the financial aid granted under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
The agency received reports that certain persons or organizations have been taking a share from the AICS assistance received by beneficiaries.
“AICS is intended solely for qualified individuals who are going through crises. The financial aid given is for the beneficiary alone and must not be reduced by anyone,” the DSWD-6 stated on Thursday, April 3.
“We urge everyone to remain vigilant and not to believe individuals or groups who attempt to take a portion of the assistance,” it stressed.
DSWD-6 also clarified that it does not endorse any political party or candidate.
“There is no truth to claims that beneficiaries will be removed from the program list if they do not support a certain politician or political group. Only the DSWD has the authority to delist beneficiaries — and only for valid reasons, such as violations of program guidelines or significant improvement in their financial status,” the statement added.
The AICS program is a government initiative designed to provide immediate financial, emotional, and psychosocial support to individuals and families experiencing crises. Assistance may come in the form of food, transportation, medical, educational, or burial aid.
The Commission on Elections (Comelec) earlier announced that the distribution of AICS will be strictly prohibited from May 2 to May 12, in connection with the election period.
Exemptions will only be made for assistance covering basic needs such as food, transportation, medical care, education, and funeral services./PN
