The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) faced intense questioning and criticism during a Senate hearing led by Senator Imee Marcos, Chairperson of the Committee on Social Justice, Welfare, and Rural Development. The issue at hand was the unclear guidelines for the re-implementation of the Ayuda Para Sa Kapos Ang Kita (AKAP) Program, aimed at providing financial aid to low-income Filipinos.
Senator Marcos expressed concerns over the lack of clear qualifications for applicants, despite the DSWD’s claim that their social workers are trusted to conduct thorough vetting. Marcos emphasized the importance of having defined qualifications for transparency and accountability.
In the hearing, retired Justice Secretary Antonio Carpio suggested that the DSWD publish a list of AKAP beneficiaries, including those who recommended them and the exact amount of aid received. Marcos supported the idea but recommended releasing the list in advance, rather than after funds were distributed, to guide the public and ensure transparency.
The Senator called on the DSWD and other government agencies to refine the guidelines to prevent confusion and ensure that the AKAP program effectively serves its intended beneficiaries.
