ILOILO City – Alarmed by what appears to be a pattern of alleged cash-aid deductions in multiple barangays, the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has issued a public advisory reminding beneficiaries that no one — not even barangay officials — is allowed to take a single peso from the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) payout.
“DSWD reminds all beneficiaries that the full amount received during the official payout belongs to them. No one is allowed to take or reduce any portion of the assistance, whether during or after the payout,” the advisory stressed.
DSWD Region 6 confirmed receiving reports from at least 10 barangays in Iloilo City — Sta. Felomina, San Pedro, M.H. del Pilar, San Isidro, Camalig, Tacas, Quezon, Desamparados, San Juan, and Punong — where beneficiaries claimed that certain barangay officials or their aides allegedly took P8,000 from the P10,000 assistance meant for disaster-hit families.
The issue has triggered citywide concern as more residents come forward.
Under the directive of Secretary Rex Gatchalian, DSWD-6 said all those who were forced to surrender part of their aid must immediately report the incident in person at its Molo district office on M.H. del Pilar Street.
“Those who have experienced this or any similar incident are encouraged to report it immediately. The office is open Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. DSWD staff will assist clients in documenting their concerns and guide them through the reporting process,” the advisory added.
The regional office assured complainants that their cases will be handled sensitively and discreetly.
“We encourage all affected beneficiaries to visit the regional office so that their concerns can be properly recorded and addressed. DSWD assures clients that reports will be handled confidentially and that their privacy will be protected.”
Dumlao: ‘Direct assault on the poor’
Meanwhile, DSWD assistant secretary Irene Dumlao condemned the alleged scheme in strong terms.
“The Department strongly condemns this kind of act which directly deprives beneficiaries of the full assistance intended for them. Ang ayuda para sa mga nangangailangan ay dapat buo nilang makukuha at hindi pwedeng bawiin o bawasan,” she said.
“We will not tolerate any form of exploitation against beneficiaries who are already in difficult situations,” Dumlao added.
She said the DSWD has launched a full investigation and is coordinating with law enforcement.
“We will ensure that those responsible are held accountable in accordance with the law,” said Dumlao./PN
