ILOILO — Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr. expressed full support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive barring politicians from participating in the distribution of cash and other forms of financial assistance, saying the province has long stayed away from such activities and would not be affected by the ban.
Defensor said he has no issue with prohibiting political presence in aid distribution, noting that restrictions on politicians’ involvement have been in place for a long time and that he himself does not attend such activities.
“Ako halin sang una waay gid ta di may ginkadtoan nga distribution sang AICS (Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations),” Defensor said.
The governor stressed that what matters most is that assistance reaches the rightful beneficiaries properly and without interference.
President Marcos recently ordered the strict enforcement of provisions in the 2026 General Appropriations Act that prohibit politicians from taking part in the distribution of cash and other forms of financial assistance, underscoring the government’s commitment to end patronage politics.
During the budget signing ceremony at Malacañan Palace, Marcos emphasized that the P6.793-trillion national budget for 2026 must be used solely to serve the Filipino people and not for partisan or political gain.
“We will strictly implement the provision on the ‘Prohibition on Political Involvement in the Distribution of Cash and Other Forms of Financial Assistance,’” the President said.
“Politicians shall be barred from the distribution of any financial aid and we shall ensure that the support reaches the intended beneficiaries without patronage,” he declared.
Marcos further assured the public that assistance would be delivered in full and through proper government channels.
“Walang bawas, walang kulang,” the President stressed.
Government assistance programs covered by the ban include the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD), the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), as well as cash grants and pensions for senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs)./PN