THE Department of Social Welfare and Development-Davao Region (DSWD-Davao) has assured the public that its programs, including the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (Akap) and Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS), will remain free from political influence, particularly with the 2025 elections approaching.
Merlinda Paragamac, assistant director for regional operations of DSWD-Davao, said that these programs are implemented in strict compliance with established guidelines to ensure fairness and transparency.
“Our assurance that it is not used under the influence of our politicians, we just comply with the guidelines set of the program,” she said during the Kapehan sa PIA, on Friday morning, December 17, 2024, at the Sangguniang Panlungsod.
Paragamac said that anyone—whether a public official or a private citizen—can refer or endorse individuals for these programs, provided the applicants meet the required criteria. She also said that the process prioritizes genuine community needs and is insulated from political interference.
DSWD-Davao reported that it successfully reached its target of assisting 349,592 beneficiaries under the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (Akap), utilizing approximately ₱1.56 billion in funds.
Launched in the region on May 18, 2024, Akap aims to strengthen the purchasing power of Filipino families grappling with inflation. The program operates under the General Appropriations Act of 2024, Special Provision No. 3 of the DSWD Budget.
Akap provides various forms of aid, including medical assistance for hospital bills, medications, and laboratory tests, with support ranging from ₱1,000 to ₱150,000. Other benefits include funeral aid of up to ₱50,000, food assistance between ₱2,000 and ₱10,000 every three months, cash relief ranging from ₱2,000 to ₱10,000 per incident, and rice support.
The department also exceeded its target for the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program. Initially set to serve 322,964 beneficiaries, the program assisted 333,313 individuals, surpassing its goal by 102.2 percent. The total funds disbursed for AICS beneficiaries amounted to ₱2.86 billion.
Both programs have faced accusations of being politicized, with some reports alleging that politicians may attempt to exploit them for personal gain ahead of the elections. However, Paragamac reassured the public that the department is committed to adhering to its strict guidelines and ensuring the integrity of these initiatives.
DSWD-Davao continues to focus on delivering essential services to those who need them most while maintaining transparency and accountability in its operations. RGP