By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
The backdrop of these challenging times calls for proactive interventions that respond effectively to the needs of constituents.
This comes as the administration proposed P33.28 billion to be allocated for the DSWD’s Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) program in the 2027 national budget—23.15% or P6.25 billion higher than the proposed budget in 2026.
The increased allocation is said to cover assistance for 4.6 million vulnerable Filipinos facing difficult circumstances, thus further bolstering the scope and scale of the government’s social protection programs for those in need.
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said in his FY 2027 Budget Message, “These investments ensure that no Filipino is left behind as our economy continues to grow.”
Moreover, he emphasized that these enhanced social welfare initiatives will help to ensure that progress remains inclusive and accessible to Filipinos from all walks of life.
AICS serves as a short-term social safety net for individuals and families facing unexpected crises and difficult circumstances. Assistance may cover immediate needs arising from illness, death, loss of income, food insecurity, transportation, burial expenses, and other emergencies.
The proposed AICS funding forms part of the P241.6 billion allocation for the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in the FY 2027 NEP to support the delivery of social protection services nationwide.
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