The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has prohibited political candidates from being present at Ayuda sa Kapos ang Kita (AKAP) cash aid payout areas during the midterm elections. DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian announced the measure as part of efforts to shield the program from political influence.
The ban is among the guidelines being developed by Gatchalian, Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma, and Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan for the program’s implementation. The officials aim to tighten the targeting of beneficiaries and ensure compliance with President Marcos’ conditional veto message.
Gatchalian emphasized in a PhilStar report that barring candidates during the campaign period serves as a safeguard against the misuse of public funds for political purposes.
“There are clear rules during campaign periods that prohibit candidates from using government resources for their campaigns,” he said, adding that initial discussions with other secretaries have been productive.
Gatchalian noted that while the DSWD works with local politicians to identify potential beneficiaries, these referrals undergo a rigorous vetting process by social workers. “Our social workers have the final say on who qualifies for aid and the amount to be distributed,” he stressed.
Launched in May 2024, AKAP supports wage earners close to the poverty line who lack access to other assistance programs. However, the initiative faced criticism for its alleged association with a signature campaign for Charter change.
