DSWD acts to protect 4Ps beneficiaries

THE Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has initiated measures to prevent unscrupulous individuals from victimizing the beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).

DSWD Regional Director Zenaida Areval said they received reports that there are individuals who are handling the Automated Teller Machine (ATM) transaction on behalf of the 4Ps beneficiaries for a fee ranging from P200 to P500.

Arevalo said they have assigned personnel at the designated banks to assist beneficiaries of 4Ps in handling ATM transactions during payout day.

The move, Arevalo said, is also aimed to empower the beneficiaries, especially those who lack the knowledge to use the ATM card, aside from preventing unscrupulous people in taking advantage of their ignorance in using ATM card.

She advised the beneficiaries to seek assistance only to designated DSWD personnel in transacting with the ATM.

She said they do not have problem in the far-flung areas since they have tapped the assistance of merchants to assist the 4Ps beneficiaries in the encashment process.

The 4Ps beneficiaries, who are staying in far-flung areas, received their financial assistance in checks while those near or in the urban centers through ATMs. (Bong Garcia)