The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) yesterday approved the release of P2 billion to assist individuals and families in difficult circumstances.
In a statement, the agency said Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman approved the release of a Special Allotment Release Order amounting to P2 billion to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to assist those in crisis situations.
The DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) forms part of the Protective Services for Individuals and Families in Difficult Circumstances.
AICS is a provision of integrated services which include financial assistance for transportation, medical, burial, food and other support services that are given to individuals and families in crisis situation.
“The release of this fund is a big help to our fellow citizens who are caught in difficult situation,” Pangandaman said.
“We want to support the DSWD to provide assistance and protection for families that are in need,” she added.
As of June 30, 2022, the AICS program served over 1.5 million clients, exceeding its annual target of around 1.4 million, the DBM said. Around 642,348 remaining clients are projected for 2022.
“This is proof that the government is prioritizing assistance to the vulnerable and disadvantaged sectors,” the budget chief said. – Angela Celis
