(File photo from DSWD)
QUEZON CITY (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has explicitly said that AKAP beneficiaries based on specific criteria, and referrals from organizations or individuals–do not guarantee financial assistance.
AKAP or Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program, aims to provide targeted social support and a safety net for low-income individuals who are affected by inflation.
In a radio interview on February 4, DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao explained that individuals will still need to undergo a process where they will be required to submit documents and be interviewed by social workers.
“We need to ascertain if indeed these individuals who are earning no more than the statutory minimum wage ay apektado ng inflation at kailangan i-assist ng DSWD under this particular program.”
In addition to the required documents, social workers also assess potential beneficiaries.
“Using an assessment sheet or intake form, may mga tinatanong tayo na information tulad ng kung mayroon ba silang support system, external resources, magkano ba ang kinikita, ilan ang nagta-trabaho sa pamilya,” Dumlao added.
Dumlao emphasized that DSWD strictly adheres to guidelines and processes, and that enhanced AKAP guidelines, created in collaboration with the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) and the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), have been submitted for approval to the Office of the President (OP) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
AKAP will be implemented conditionally this 2025, pending approval of new, stricter guidelines mentioned in President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s veto message upon signing the General Appropriations Act (GAA) on December 30. (GLDG/PIA-NCR)
