QUEZON CITY (PIA) — The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the release of P5 billion for the Department of Social Welfare and Development’s (DSWD) Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program.
“This is in adherence to the directive of President Bongbong Marcos to immediately respond to the needs of communities ravaged by natural disasters,” DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman emphasized.
“Hindi natin maikakaila ang matinding epekto ng climate crisis dito sa Pilipinas. Dumaan ang bagyong Nika, Ofel, Pepito, at marami pa ang parating. Ang dagdag pondong ito sa DSWD ay para sa ating mga kababayan na apektado ng krisis,” she said.
The DBM noted that the AICS program is a critical component of DSWD’s services, providing essential support such as medical, burial, transportation, education, and food assistance, along with financial aid for other urgent needs of individuals and families in crisis.
“Through this, we are sustaining support for vulnerable and marginalized communities. We are bridging the resource gap required for extensive disaster recovery and sustained support throughout the nation,” the budget chief added.
The DBM said that the allocation of these additional funds is in accordance with the special provisions in the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) concerning the use of Unprogrammed Appropriations (UA).
These provisions permit the utilization of funds for vital infrastructure and social programs, including financial aid for indigent citizens, contingent upon the availability of new or excess revenue collections, it pointed out. (PIA DMD)
