A SNAG in the distribution of the social amelioration program (SAP) subsidy the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) comes from differences in perceived beneficiaries—the DSWD uses its traditional list while local government units (LGUs) also have their own. The irreconcilability of their rosters puts the local executives in an awkward position at the end of the day, especially when they had promised their constituents the SAP, only to find out that the budget was earmarked according to DSWD listing. Thus, some unfortunate chance that a good number may be left out in the package distribution.

This was the subject of a lengthy discussion among mayors and representatives of national line agencies in a meeting led by Cebu Provincial Gov. Gwendolyn Garcia Tuesday, April 7, 2020.

The prevailing mindset among LGUs almost exclusively relies on the DSWD’s SAP, and overlooking the fact that other agencies also have their aid packages.

The Department of Labor and Employment (Dole), for instance, has in its stock a good number of mitigating measures in the time of the new coronavirus (Covid-19) crisis.

Dole Department Order 210 has set the guidelines for the implementation of the Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Displaced/Disadvantaged Workers Program (Tupad). Tupad provides budget to the LGUs for the barangays to come up with projects that will provide displaced workers emergency employment. Under Covid-19, Tupad has #BKBK (Barangay Ko, Bahay Ko), a community-based sanitation and disinfection project, in which displaced workers get paid for a minimum of P402 per day for 10 days.

Dole also has Camp (Covid-19 Adjustment Measures Program), also intended for affected workers regardless of their status (permanent, probationary, contractual). Establishments will be granted funds to support the workers with P5,000 in cash.

The Department of Agriculture is also offering a loan package of P25,000 to affected farmers. It will be payable for three years.

The Department of Transportation has also earmarked P6,000 in assistance for tricycle drivers.

The Bayanihan Heal as One Act has actually activated a good number of instruments available to government to help the citizens during the health emergency. If these have not reached you, local officials can help present these options to their citizens, especially those who may be left out in the more emphasized SAP.