Senator-elect Panfilo “Ping” Lacson is pushing to consolidate all forms of government aid under the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps), aiming for a more efficient and accountable distribution of assistance.
Lacson emphasized that expanding the 4Ps program would eliminate confusion caused by multiple aid initiatives, which he described as prone to duplication and political misuse. He mentioned programs like TUPAD, AKAP, AICS, and MAIP, which, according to him, lack the data-driven approach of 4Ps.
“I have instructed my prospective legislative staff to draft an amendment to Republic Act 11310, the law on the 4Ps program, to expand it and address the sectors covered by the other forms of ayuda,” Lacson stated in a radio interview.
Lacson criticized how some lawmakers allegedly use aid distribution, such as the Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita Program (AKAP), for political gain, despite having no official role in implementing these programs.
In addition to streamlining aid distribution, Lacson pledged to closely examine the national budget, labeling the recent budgets as some of the “most corrupt” he has seen in his 18 years as a senator.
“I will prioritize scrutinizing the national budget, which is the lifeline of our economy. Without the budget, we cannot move,” he stressed.
Lacson, a former Philippine National Police chief, also proposed providing local government units (LGUs) with a one-percent rebate on their Value Added Tax (VAT) remittances to the national government, ensuring they receive greater support.
Lacson was officially proclaimed senator at the Manila Hotel last Saturday after running under the Alyansa Para Sa Bagong Pilipinas.
