DSWD Secretary issues fresh warning to politicians using aid distribution for campaigning

Department of Social Welfare and Development Sec. Rex Gatchalian on Thursday, October 26, 2023. Voltaire F. Domingo, Senate PRIB/FIle

MANILA — With just a few days left before the elections, Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian has issued again a reminder to candidates, particularly incumbent officials, not to use the distribution of government aid as a tool for campaigning.

Secretary Gatchalian warned that politicians or candidates caught using aid distribution for political gain will face formal complaints.

“Mga proyekto ng gobyerno, at mga proyekto ng DSWD ay hindi entablado  para pangampanya ,ito ay mandato namin na tumulong sa ating mga kababayan sana huwag samantalahin  at porket nakita nila na may convergence ng mga tao  ay gagawin nilang forum for campaigning, huwag na nilang gawin  kasi pinaghirapan ninyo na mangampanya, we are almost in the homestretch only to be disqualifies so huwag na lang sana,“ said Gatchalian.


His statement comes amid reports that many candidates, particularly incumbents, are making appearances at aid distribution events, especially under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS) program, where beneficiaries receive between P2,000 to P3,000.

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“Hindi kami pumapayag  mag-start ang distribution ng ayuda  kung may mga pulitiko sa lugar at sinisiguro  natin na kung mayroon tayong report ay we  take it seriously and we fact find and we investigate” he added.

Gatchalian also said that politicians found interfering in DSWD activities will be recommended for disqualification before the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

"This is a very unique period kasi  bukod sa may administrative, criminal liabilities. election offenses din na maituturing 'yung violation ng mga pinaiiral na guidelines ng DSWD at Comelec," he said.

He urged the public to report any candidate who uses or interferes with the distribution of aid for political purposes.