The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has strongly denied viral claims on social media alleging that the agency distributed air conditioning units to beneficiaries of the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps).
DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the public should carefully verify information circulating online and avoid immediately believing social media posts.
The clarification came after images went viral showing alleged 4Ps beneficiaries holding air conditioning units beside signs stating “free aircon from the government.”
Authorities later identified the circulating photos as AI-generated images.
Another viral image previously showed an alleged house belonging to a 4Ps beneficiary in a squatter area with an installed air conditioning unit, triggering further discussion online.
The DSWD emphasized that assistance provided under the 4Ps program is intended for education, health care and the primary needs of poor households.
The agency reminded the public to remain cautious and avoid sharing false information that may create confusion or contribute to destabilization efforts against the government.
According to the DSWD, the agency continues to monitor fake news and misleading online content that could damage public trust in its programs and services.
The 4Ps program is one of the government’s poverty alleviation initiatives aimed at helping low-income families through conditional cash assistance.
Dumlao reiterated that the DSWD does not distribute air conditioning units to 4Ps beneficiaries.
The agency urged social media users to verify the authenticity of online content before reposting or sharing it publicly.
The viral claims gained attention online after several manipulated and AI-generated images spread across social media platforms involving alleged government aid distribution activities.
