BACOLOD City – Abang Lingkod Party-list has clarified issues surrounding the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) payout incident that occurred in Barangay 21, Victorias City, on December 10, following reports of alleged irregularities.
In a statement posted on its official social media page, Abang Lingkod, in the interest of transparency, emphasized that the final approval of AICS beneficiaries rests solely with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).
The party-list stressed that it has no authority to approve beneficiaries, adding that all funds allocated for the 174 individuals approved by the DSWD were fully released during the distribution.
“These records are a matter of public record and may be verified directly with the DSWD,” the group said.
Abang Lingkod also expressed concern over reports that certain individuals in Barangay 21 allegedly used the organization’s name to solicit money from beneficiaries.
The party-list categorically denied any involvement in such activities, reiterating that it strictly prohibits any form of solicitation in exchange for assistance and does not sanction or tolerate such acts.
Following reports of the alleged irregularities, Abang Lingkod said it immediately launched an internal investigation. Preliminary findings identified a certain individual responsible for the unauthorized activity.
The party-list clarified that the individual was only tasked with assisting in the dissemination of information and requirements for those seeking assistance.
According to Abang Lingkod, the individual admitted to collecting money and claimed that the intent was to pool funds to help applicants who were disqualified from receiving assistance.
The party-list said it firmly informed the individual that, regardless of intent, the practice was strictly prohibited and unauthorized.
The individual has since assured Abang Lingkod that all collected funds have been returned to the affected beneficiaries.
Abang Lingkod said the incident has been formally placed on record and assured the public that it remains vigilant in preventing similar incidents in the future.
The party-list reaffirmed its commitment to ethical service, accountability, and the proper delivery of government assistance to those in need./PN
