Bong Go urges improvement of SAP distribution system

Senator Christopher "Bong" Go urged government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to refine the distribution system of the social amelioration program (SAP) to ensure aid reaches all affected Filipinos.

Go emphasized the need to address issues such as conflicting beneficiary lists and ensure that government funds are utilized efficiently without wastage.

LGUs are tasked with working closely with the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) to reconcile beneficiary lists and ensure equitable distribution, especially to the most vulnerable.

The DSWD is currently distributing cash assistance to four million 4Ps beneficiaries and is also providing aid to vulnerable and informal sector workers.

Families left out of the initial SAP list can submit their names to the DSWD for validation and potential inclusion in future funding rounds.

The DSWD is piloting the 'Relief Agad' system in Manila, which, if successful, will be used for the second tranche of emergency subsidy distribution.

Around 18 million Filipino families are expected to receive two months of assistance under the SAP, starting with the poorest of the poor.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is providing P5,000 cash assistance through the COVID-19 Adjustment Measures Program (CAMP) for formal sector workers.

The Department of Finance (DOF) and the Social Security System (SSS) will also provide aid to employees of micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to prevent hunger.

Barangay health workers and nutrition scholars from low-income families are also included in the SAP beneficiaries.