ILOILO City – Nearly P304 million worth of social welfare programs for Iloilo City residents are facing delays under election spending restrictions, putting medical, financial and other forms of assistance on hold as City Hall awaits an exemption from the Commission on Elections (Comelec).
Around 40 social service and welfare programs with a combined budget of P303,797,840 have been affected by the ban on the implementation of government projects and disbursement of public funds in connection with the November 2, 2026 Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections (BSKE).
Mayor Raisa Treñas said the city government has already sought an exemption from the Comelec Political Affairs and Finance Department but has yet to receive a decision.
The restrictions have affected financial and medical assistance programs under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (ATIPAN) and HAPLOS, raising concerns over residents who rely on government aid, particularly those requiring medical assistance.
Treñas expressed concern that delays in the release of assistance could adversely affect beneficiaries who depend on the city government during emergencies and other difficult circumstances.
The exemption being sought by City Hall would allow the affected social welfare programs to continue and permit the release of funds to qualified beneficiaries despite the election-period restrictions.
Several programs, however, were already implemented before the election ban took effect on September 3.
These include the Bigay Bigas Program, the Senior Citizens’ National Social Pension, and KABULIG sa Kabuhayan (KAYA) Emergency Employment, among other initiatives.
The remaining programs covered by the exemption request could be delayed until City Hall secures the necessary authorization from Comelec.
Treñas stressed the importance of keeping essential social services accessible despite restrictions intended to prevent government resources from being used to influence elections.
The uncertainty comes as preparations continue for the 2026 BSKE.
Unless the proposed extension of the terms of barangay officials is approved, the barangay and SK elections are scheduled for November 2, 2026./PN
